Interferons immune system plays a vital role in the immune response to viral infections, tumors, and other immune challenges. Interferons (IFNs) are a group of signaling proteins categorized into three main types: Type I (including IFN-alpha and IFN-beta), Type II (IFN-gamma), and Type III (IFN-lambda). Each type has distinct functions and mechanisms of action that are crucial for modulating the immune system.
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AMPK substrates act in specific subcellular locales to rewire metabolism.
Overview of interferon signaling pathways in vertebrate hosts. Production of interferons (IFNs) begins with the binding of viral molecules, such as genomic nucleic acids, to either cell surface or intracellular pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) [18,19]. The resulting signaling cascade activates transcription and secretion of IFNs, which then bind to their associated IFN receptor on the same and nearby cells. Binding of IFNs to their receptors activates a signal cascade by Janus tyrosine kinases (JAK) and tyrosine kinase (TYK) that leads to the phosphorylation of STAT1 and/or STAT2 [9,15]. For type I and III IFNs, STAT1 and STAT2 complex with IRF9 and bind to IFN-stimulated response elements (ISREs) to express IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). For type II IFNs, phosphorylated STAT1 dimers bind to gamma-activated site (GAS) elements for ISG production [9,15]. In turn, ISGs mediate antiviral effects directly within infected cells, or further induce innate and adaptive immune responses [3,120].
MECHANISMS OF ACTION
Interferons exert their effects by binding to specific receptors on the surface of target cells, activating intracellular signaling pathways that enhance antiviral defenses and promote immune regulation. Upon binding, interferons trigger the expression of various genes involved in immune responses, including.
Antiviral Proteins: These proteins inhibit viral replication and enhance the ability of cells to resist infection.
Cytokines and Chemokines: Interferons stimulate the production of other cytokines and chemokines that recruit immune cells to the site of infection or inflammation.
Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) Molecules: IFNs increase the expression of MHC molecules, enhancing the presentation of antigens to T cells and promoting adaptive immune responses
THE ROLE OF INTERFERONS IN THE IMMUNE RESPONSE
Interferons serve multiple functions within the immune system:
Antiviral Activity: Type I IFNs activate genes that inhibit viral replication, enhancing the antiviral state of neighboring cells.
Immune Modulation: They regulate both innate and adaptive immune responses by influencing the activation of natural killer (NK) cells and T lymphocytes.
Inflammation Control: While promoting an immune response, interferons also help to mitigate excessive inflammation that can lead to tissue damage.
INTERFERONS IN CANCER THERAPY
In addition to their antiviral properties, interferons are increasingly recognized for their role in cancer immunotherapy. Type I interferons, particularly IFN-alpha, have been used to treat certain cancers, such as melanoma and chronic myeloid leukemia, by enhancing the immune response against tumor cells. They help to stimulate T cell activity and promote the expression of tumor-associated antigens, making cancer cells more visible to the immune system.
THERAPEUTICS APPLICATIONS
Interferons are used clinically for various conditions, including:
Viral Infections: Such as hepatitis B and C.
Autoimmune Diseases: Interferon-beta is used in treating multiple sclerosis by modulating the immune response.
Cancer: Interferon therapies are employed to enhance anti-tumor immunity.
He Y, et al. Suppression of Interferon Response and Antiviral Strategies of Bunyaviruses. Trop Med Infect Dis. (2024)7;9(9):205.
Liu YG, et al. Interferon lambda in respiratory viral infection: immunomodulatory functions and antiviral effects in epithelium. Front Immunol. (2024)1:15:1338096.
Schoggins JW. Interferon-Stimulated Genes: What Do They All Do? Annu Rev Virol. (2019)29;6(1):567-584.
Lee AJ, Ashkar AA. The Dual Nature of Type I and Type II Interferons. Front Immunol. (2018)11;9:2061.