What role does IL-2 play in immune response?

Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a crucial cytokine in the immune response, primarily responsible for promoting the growth, proliferation, and differentiation of T cells. Its main role is to activate CD4+ helper T cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, which are essential for adaptive immunity. When T cells are stimulated by antigen presentation, they produce IL-2, which then acts in an autocrine and paracrine manner to enhance the activation and expansion of these T cells. This process is vital for generating a robust immune response against pathogens and for tumor surveillance.

This is why the role of IL-2 in activating CD4 and CD8 T cells is fundamental to its function in the immune system. Through this activation, IL-2 supports various immune processes, including cell-mediated immunity and the development of immunological memory. Other functions of IL-2 include promoting the survival of regulatory T cells, which help maintain immune tolerance and prevent autoimmunity, although this specific aspect is not the main focus of the question.

The other options presented pertain to different biological processes and do not directly relate to the function of IL-2 in the immune response. For instance, inhibiting osteoclast activity relates to bone metabolism