Inflammation: Complexity and significance of cellular and molecular responses

Abstract

Inflammation is a multifaceted cellular and molecular response triggered by injury, infection, or various pathological conditions. Serving as a protective defense mechanism, the inflammatory response involves clinical signs like redness, swelling, pain, and increased body temperature. Immune cells, notably neutrophils and macrophages, play key roles in orchestrating this response. The delicate balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators, including cytokines and chemokines, regulates the inflammatory cascade. While acute inflammation is crucial for tissue repair, chronic inflammation may indicate an imbalance, contributing to conditions like autoimmune diseases. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for developing therapeutic strategies and managing chronic diseases.