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Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), also known as glycosylation inhibitory factor (GIF), L-dopaxel isomerase or phenylpyruvate isomerase, is a protein encoded by the MIF gene. It is an important regulator of innate immunity. CD74 is the surface receptor for MIF. Bacterial antigens stimulate leukocytes to release MIF into the bloodstream. Circulating MIF binds to CD74 on other immune cells, triggering an acute immune response. Therefore, MIF is classified as an inflammatory cytokine. In addition, glucocorticoids also stimulate white blood cells to release MIF, so MIF partially counteracts the suppressive effect of glucocorticoids on the immune system.