Question:easy
What is the function of IL-1?
What is the function of IL-1?
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This macrophage cytokine resets the hypothalamic thermostat to cause fever.
Updated On: Jun 23, 2026
- Enhances hematopoiesis
- Stimulates mast cells
- Has antiviral properties
- Endogenous pyrogen
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Recall that cytokines have signature roles, and IL-1 is one of the three classic endogenous pyrogens along with IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Step 2: IL-1, a heat- and pH-stable peptide existing as IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta, raises the hypothalamic set point to cause fever and drives the acute-phase response. Step 3: Antiviral defense belongs to interferons, while IL-1 does not primarily act as a mast-cell stimulant or a hematopoietic enhancer in the way the distractors imply. Step 4: The defining function listed is endogenous pyrogen activity. \[\boxed{\text{Endogenous pyrogen}}\]
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