Final Answer:
Among the options provided, MDA-5 is not a cytokine; it is a cytoplasmic receptor involved in antiviral responses. Option C is the answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cytokines are signaling proteins crucial for intercellular communication in the immune system. IL-1 (Interleukin-1), TNF-α (Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha), IL-6 (Interleukin-6), and CXCL-8 (Chemokine Ligand 8, also known as IL-8) are all examples of cytokines involved in immune responses. They play roles in inflammation, immune cell activation, and recruitment.
MDA-5 (Melanoma Differentiation-Associated protein 5) is not a cytokine but rather a cytoplasmic receptor that recognizes viral RNA and is part of the innate immune system. It triggers antiviral responses, including the production of interferons. While both cytokines and cytoplasmic receptors are involved in immune responses, they serve different functions in the immune system.
Option C is the answer.