Interleukin-6 Unit Converter

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a cytokine, a small signaling protein that regulates immune responses, inflammation, and metabolism. It acts as an alarm signal, rising rapidly in response to infection, tissue injury, or immune activation.

An IL-6 blood test measures the concentration of this protein in your blood, reflecting the degree of systemic inflammation. Normal levels are typically below 5 pg/mL in healthy individuals.

IL-6 has both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory properties depending on how it signals. When it binds to receptors on cell surfaces (classic signaling), it supports healing and regeneration. When it binds to a soluble receptor in the blood (trans-signaling), it drives chronic inflammation.

Produced by immune cells (macrophages, T cells, B cells), fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and skeletal muscle during exercise. Adipose tissue is a major source, contributing roughly one-third of circulating IL-6.