IL-6 cytokines bind to IL-6 receptors (IL-6Rs) on cell surfaces.  The protein gp130 found within the receptor transmits the cytokine's signal and prompts janus kinases (JAKs) to come to the IL-6R.  These kinases phosphorylate the receptor as well as themselves which ultimately leads to the phosphorylation and dimerization of the protein Stat3.  Stat3 dimers move into the nucleus and bind to the IFNγ active site of genes related to inflammation and intracellular adhesion as a transcription factor.   

IL-6 Family Signaling Pathway

IL-6 is a member of the IL-6 family of cytokines and plays an important role in the cytokine network as an acute inflammation regulator.  These cytokines have roles in human metabolism, autoimmune cell differentiation, disease treatment, and more. In regards to the inflammation, IL-6 has both anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory effects. IL-6 has effects on B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, hepatocytes, hematopoietic stem cells, the occurrence of immune abnormalities, and the occurrence/development of cardiovascular diseases. 

IL-6

The IL-6 family of cytokines are primary produced by T helper cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts to target activated B cells and plasma cells.  These molecules promote the differentiation of plasma cells and to stimulate IgG production.  Members of this family include:

- IL-6
- IL-11
- IL-31
- CNTF
- CT-1
- LIF
- OPN
- OSM

Michigan State University

Interleukins

Turner, M. D., Nedjai, B., Hurst, T., & Pennington, D. J. (2014). Cytokines and chemokines: at the crossroads of cell signalling and inflammatory disease. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)-Molecular Cell Research, 1843(11), 2563-2582.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167488914001967
doi: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.05.014

Cytokines and chemokines: At the crossroads of cell signalling and inflammatory disease

IL-6 Family

The IL-1 family of cytokines is primarily produced by macrophages, B cells, and dendritic cells.  These molecules target other B cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and T cells to promote a fever-like pyrogenic response, inflammation, and cell development - especially in bone marrow.  Members of this family include:

- IL-1α
- IL-1β
- IL-1ra
- IL-18
- IL-33
- IL-36α
- IL-36β
- IL-36γ
- IL-36Ra
- IL-37
- IL-1Hy2

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