Cachexia is primarily caused by the complex interplay of pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor-derived factors, and metabolic alterations. These factors lead to a systemic inflammatory response, muscle wasting, and increased energy expenditure, ultimately resulting in the depletion of fat and muscle mass seen in cachexia.
The activation of the inflammatory response is typically triggered by the recognition of pathogens or tissue damage by the immune system. This recognition leads to the release of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and chemokines, which promote inflammation by recruiting immune cells to the site of infection or injury.
Cytokines are small proteins that act as signaling molecules in the immune system, regulating cell communication and behavior. They play a key role in inflammation, immune responses, and other processes. Cytokines can be produced by various cells, such as immune cells, and can have diverse functions based on their type and target cells.
Macrophages are the primary cells responsible for initiating the inflammatory response. They recognize and engulf pathogens or debris, releasing cytokines that signal other immune cells to join the response. Additionally, mast cells are also involved in the early stages of inflammation by releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are known to have anti-inflammatory effects in the body. They help reduce inflammation by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish like salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds.
Cell-mediated immunity decreases at puberty due to hormonal changes that can influence the development and function of immune cells, such as T cells. During puberty, there is a shift in the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses, which can affect immune regulation and responsiveness. Additionally, hormonal changes can impact the production of cytokines and other immune mediators involved in cell-mediated immunity.
An interferon designated as beta-1b enhances the activity of T-cells, while simultaneously reducing the production cytokines that operate in the inflammatory response to infection and injury
Tumor Necrosis Factor or TNF, is a cytokine which is involved in the inflammatory process. Cytokines are chemical substances which deliver messages between cells in the body.
Cytokines are special proteins that direct immune and inflammatory responses in the body. They act as messengers between different cells of the immune system, regulating their activities in response to infections and other stimuli. Examples include interleukins, interferons, and tumor necrosis factor.
Th1 cytokines are a group of cytokines produced by T helper 1 (Th1) cells in the immune system. They include interleukin-2 (IL-2), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), among others. Th1 cytokines play a critical role in promoting cell-mediated immunity and activating macrophages to help fight intracellular pathogens.
Cytokines are signaling molecules that play a crucial role in regulating immune responses and inflammation in the body. They can promote cell communication and activation, help in fighting infections, and regulate immune cell differentiation and function. However, an overproduction of cytokines can lead to harmful effects and contribute to inflammatory diseases.
Lupus anticoagulant does not, in itself cause tiredness but having lupus does. Lupus can cause anemia which in turn causes fatigue. Lupus can cause the body to make inflammatory cytokines which cause a feeling of flu like fatigue.