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Gene & pathway reference · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

IL16

IL16 encodes interleukin-16, a cytokine involved in attracting and influencing immune cells, including CD4-expressing cells. Its recruitment role helps separate it from other numbered interleukins.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

A cytokine involved in immune-cell traffic

A cytokine involved in immune-cell traffic

IL16 encodes interleukin-16, a cytokine involved in attracting and influencing immune cells, including CD4-expressing cells. Its recruitment role helps separate it from other numbered interleukins.

Putting the pieces together

Dr. Purser’s panel places IL-16 among pro-inflammatory signals. The teaching value is to connect recruitment with the larger inflammatory picture instead of assigning a diagnosis to a numbered cytokine. Current symptoms, examination and any protein measurements provide the clinical context.

Where the VARS Triad and MTHFR Daily fit

If you are exploring homocysteine or cytokines, Dr. Purser may discuss MTHFR Daily and the VARS Triad: VARS Glutathione, VARS SOD, and VARS Catalase. He gives glutathione a central place in his approach to antioxidant support.

A gene result alone cannot tell you that you need these products or that they will treat a condition. Review your current results, medicines, goals, and tolerance with your clinician before choosing a product or dose.

A question to bring to your visit

What does this add to the established clinical picture beyond a general inflammation label?

Variant lookup

These names can help you find an entry on your original genetic report. Seeing a name here does not tell you whether it affects your health or whether you need treatment.

Names you may see

IL-16 · Interleukin 16