Dear Colleagues,

Cytokines, such as interleukin and interferon, are endogenous signaling molecules that are often secreted as part of an immune response. They play a major role in a variety of biological activities as immunomodulating agents by mediating humoral and cell-based immune responses and regulate cell repair, growth, and remodelling. In a number of studies, it was shown that an excessive as well as an insufficient production of cytokines can contribute to the rise of different diseases, including cancer. The restoration of an optimal cytokine balance is of utmost therapeutic value and has been examined in a number of clinical studies. The systemic administration of different cytokines in a setting of different cancers showed significant effects, even though severe side effects were observed. Nevertheless, more data and clinical experience have still to be acquired to find out if adjuvant cytokine treatment can safely be used in cancer patients.

This Special Issue will cover a selection of recent research topics in the field of cytokines, focusing on their biological effects and therapeutic uses. Experimental papers, up-to-date review articles, and commentaries are all welcome.

Dr. Young Kim
Prof. Dr. Ingo Schmidt-Wolf
Guest Editors

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• cytokines
• cancer therapy
• cellular therapy
• CIK cells
• immunotherapy
• immunomodulation
• immune response
• immune system
• interferon
• interleukin
• NKT cells
• tumor vaccination
• vaccination therapy