T helper cells and interleukin molecules, illustration. T helper cells play an important role in the immune system. After activation by an antigen-presenting cell, this T helper cell is segregating interleukin (IL) cytokines. From left to right (across bottom), these are: IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-13. This leads to B cell antibody class switching, activation of cytotoxic T cells, and maximizing the bactericidal activity of phagocytes such as macrophages. For this illustration with labels, see image F025/2791. |