Abstract

Autoimmune diseases arise from the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Central to these diseases are cytokines, small proteins that regulate immune responses and play pivotal roles in the development and progression of autoimmune conditions. This review explores the various families of cytokines, including interleukins, tumor necrosis factors, interferons, and chemokines, highlighting their contributions to autoimmune pathology. Mechanisms underlying cytokine dysregulation, such as genetic predispositions, environmental triggers, and immune cell imbalances, are discussed. Furthermore, the review examines emerging therapeutic targets within cytokine signaling pathways, focusing on cytokine inhibition, receptor blockade, modulation of cytokine production, and enhancement of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Understanding the regulatory roles of cytokines in autoimmune diseases has paved the way for innovative treatments, offering promising prospects for improving patient outcomes.