Question

Match the cytokine to its description.

This cytokine stimulates plasma cell secretion of IgE and IgG, and increases the number of class II MHC molecules on B cells and macrophages.

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

Answer 1

Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is the cytokine that stimulates plasma cell secretion of IgE and IgG, and increases class II MHC molecules' presence on B cells and macrophages, playing a pivotal role in immune responses and allergies.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cytokine that matches the description provided — stimulates plasma cell secretion of IgE and IgG, and increases the number of class II MHC molecules on B cells and macrophages — is interleukin-4 (IL-4). Interleukin-4 is known to play a significant role in the differentiation of naive helper T cells (Th0 cells) to Th2 cells, which in turn secrete cytokines leading to the activation of B cells. These activated B cells can then multiply and mature into plasma cells that produce antibodies, specifically IgE and IgG. This process is integral to both humoral immunity and allergic responses.