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Pro-Inflammatory State

Meaning

A pro-inflammatory state, or chronic low-grade systemic inflammation, is a persistent, non-resolving elevation of inflammatory mediators throughout the body that does not meet the criteria for acute infection or injury. This subtle, smoldering state is characterized by elevated circulating levels of inflammatory biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and various cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α). Clinically, this chronic condition is recognized as a major contributing factor to the pathogenesis of numerous age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.