Description
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MMIF), also known as GIF, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the MIF gene. It is a cytokine released by T-lymphocytes, macrophages, and the pituitary gland that serves to integrate peripheral and central inflammatory responses. The gene has 3 exons separated by introns of only 189 and 95 bp, and covers less than 1 kb. MIF plays a critical role in inflammatory diseases and atherogenesis. It is also involved in cell-mediated immunity and immunoregulation. MIF plays a role in the regulation of macrophage function in host defense through the suppression of anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids