Cytokines, oh cytokines,
Messengers of immune defenses,
Small proteins, mighty powers,
Guiding our bodies through life's offenses.
Interleukins, interferons,
Tumor necrosis factor too,
With their signals they mobilize,
The immune system anew.
Inflammation, fever, healing,
Cytokines work in every cell,
Fighting pathogens, repairing tissue,
Ensuring our health remains well.
But sometimes they go overboard,
Causing harm instead of aid,
Cytokine storms, autoimmune diseases,
Show their dark side unafraid.
Cytokines, oh cytokines,
So vital, yet so complex,
Their balance holds the key to health,
A delicate dance we must respect.
