Interferon – a part of the immune system

The role of interferons in the evolution of vertebrates

Interferons (IFN) are the basis of antiviral protection in all vertebrates.

When attacked by viral particles, almost any cell in the body can synthesize interferon molecules, informing the rest of the cells that it is infected. Immune cells move towards this signal to eliminate the danger faster. Tissue cells, having received the IFN signal, rearrange their biochemical processes to protect themselves from viruses or slow down their reproduction if they failed to protect themselves.

Innate immunity is a quick but crude response to danger. The innate immune system triggers the acquired immune system through the interferon system – an exact but slow tool for protecting the body from external influences.

The IFN molecule does not fight directly against the viral particle but triggers all the antiviral protection mechanisms without exception. [Read more…]

Interferon triggers all the antiviral protection mechanisms

Actual knowledge about human interferon

Interferon in the human body is produced and functions based on the same principles as in other vertebrates. The human IFN system’s peculiarity is the variety of protective and regulatory processes triggered or stimulated by interferon. Depending on which genes encode the form of the IFN molecule, there are 3 types of interferon.

People have been using interferon since 1960 for the prevention and treatment of viral, fungal, and oncological diseases. [Read more…]

n 2020, the study of human interferon was mainly aimed at combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Some current topics:

Interferon Prevents Coronavirus Cytokine Storm in Diabetic Patients

Interferon increases levels of the enzyme SETDB2, which suppresses inflammation

Interferon Autoantibodies Increase The Risk of Critical COVID-19 in Elders

Autoantibodies that neutralize type I interferons are present in 4% of uninfected people over 70 and are responsible for 20% of deaths from COVID-19

Interferon-α2b inhalation improves clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients

The timing of treatment initiation is crucial – up to 5 days from the onset of symptoms

Interferons against diseases

Interferons are highly active molecules with strictly regulated synthesis by different body systems. To survive, some pathogens are able to counteract the production and action of interferons. Humanity has learned to produce additional IFN molecules to treat and prevent disease.

This section talks about research on diseases against which interferons are effective.

Вульвовагинальный кандидоз: причины, патогенез, лечение

Как организм взаимодействует с грибком при остром и рецидивирующем вульвовагинальном кандидозе

Рекомбинантная вакцина против опоясывающего лишая снижает риск деменции

По сравнению с живой вакциной, эффект на 17% лучше

Вакцины начала 2000-х могут защитить от нового гриппа H5N1

Вакцины с адъювантами MF59 и AS03 вызывают образование перекрестно-нейтрализующих антител

Longevity and interferons: general factors for a healthy life

Interferons are part of the innate immune system. It is the immune system that provides homeostasis – the body’s ability to maintain its vital functions. The better the immune system works, the longer the body lives.

Many health factors are aimed at strengthening the immune system and hence the interferon system. This section presents studies that identify and explain the “longevity – immunity – interferon” relationship.

Type 1 Diabetes: New Insights into the Viral Origins of the Disease

Antiviral Treatment Helps Preserve β-Cells

Optimal Protein Intake for Muscle Growth – 1.6 g/kg

A Meta-Analysis of Studies Involving Healthy Adults

How to Change Your Lifestyle to Reduce the Risk of Dementia

Healthy Lifestyle vs. Genetic Risk: New Insights into Alzheimer's Disease

Lactobacillus plantarum: Weight Loss Through Probiotics

How Microbiota Can Help Fight Obesity

Microglia as a Key Target in Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment

Medications and Natural Products That Protect Against Dementia

Microbial Changes in Space

How Spaceflight Affects Health