1. A cytokine produced by a single type of cell, especially a monocyte or macrophage.
Usage: technical; immunology

Examples

• Tumor necrosis factor is a well-known monokine released by activated macrophages.
• Researchers studied how monokines regulate immune responses in infected tissues.
• The monokine interleukin-1 plays a crucial role in inflammation.
• Macrophages secrete various monokines that help coordinate the immune system.
• Understanding monokine signaling has improved treatments for inflammatory diseases.