IFN-γ
Th1 cytokine linking innate and adaptive immunity; drives macrophage activation
- Expression
- Elevated
- Evidence level
- strong
Role in pathogenesis
IFN-γ production is driven by IL-18 stimulation of Th1 cells and NK cells. IFN-γ further activates macrophages, upregulates ferritin synthesis, and plays a central role in the development of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). Dysfunctional NK cells and elevated Th1 cells contribute to the IFN-γ-driven inflammatory milieu.