Question

Match the cytokine to its description.

This cytokine stimulates plasma cells to secrete IgA.

A) interleukin-5
B) interleukin-10
C) interleukin-1
D) interferon-γ
E) interferon-α
F) interleukin-4
G) interleukin-2

Answer 1

Interleukin-5 (IL-5) is the cytokine that stimulates plasma cells to secrete IgA, which is a type of antibody important for mucosal immunity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cytokine that stimulates plasma cells to secrete IgA is interleukin-5 (IL-5). Cytokines are signaling proteins that are secreted by cells in the immune system, and they play a crucial role in the body's immune response. Interleukin-5 is particularly involved in the activation of B cells and their differentiation into plasma cells that produce IgA, which is a type of antibody important for mucosal immunity.

Different cytokines are responsible for various immunological responses. For instance, T cells and natural killer cells secrete interferons like IFN-γ, which are vital in helping B cells multiply and mature into antibody-producing plasma cells. However, for the specific task of helping plasma cells to secrete IgA, IL-5 is the correct match.