Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of cytokines?

C cytokines play a crucial role in regulating the immune system. They are signaling proteins that facilitate communication between cells, leading to the activation and proliferation of immune cells such as T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. By stimulating the immune response, cytokines increase the body's ability to recognize and fight off pathogens, including cancer cells. This is particularly advantageous in immunotherapy approaches, where the goal is to harness the body's immune system to target and destroy cancer cells more effectively.

While cytokines may indirectly enhance the effects of other treatments or induce apoptosis in certain contexts, their primary mechanism is the stimulation of the immune response. They do not specifically target tumor cells in the way that some other cancer therapies, such as targeted therapies, might. Instead, their action is more generalized, enhancing the body's overall ability to respond to various threats, including tumors.