IFNs

Interferons (INFs) are a class of cytokines with anti-viral, anti-tumor and cell growth-inhibiting effects. They regulate B lymphocyte development, proliferation, immunoglobulin secretion, and antibody class switching. Studies have shown that ATRA and INFs have synergistic effects on cells. The GAS and ISRE elements of the INFs regulatory gene regulatory region are present on the ATRA-regulated RIG-E and RIG-G gene promoters, suggesting that they may be regulated by IFNs. In the analysis of the transcription factor binding site of the RIG-1 promoter, we also found that there is a possible binding site for IRF-1/IRF-2 on this part of the DNA.
Human IFN, like IFN for other animals, is a multi-gene system whose protein products can be divided into three main types. IFN-α, IFN-β and IFN-γ. There is only one gene for IFN-β or IFN-γ, and at least 23 different genes for IFN-α, and these genes encode 15 functional proteins. The IFN-α genes are closely related, both located on chromosome 9 and adjacent to the IFN-β gene, and the IFN-γ gene is located on chromosome 12. The IFN protein consists of 165 to 187 amino acids with a molecular weight of 17 to 25 kD.
In vivo, IFN is usually produced temporarily under strict induction control. Inducible stimuli of common IFN-a and IFN-β include viruses, bacteria and double-stranded RNA. IFN-a is mainly induced in peripheral straight mononuclear cells, and IFN-β is induced in fibroblasts and epithelial cells. IFN-γ, which has a broad role in the regulation of immune responses, is induced by mitogens and antigens. Other protein regulators such as tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-1 (IL-1) interleukin 2 (L-2) and colony stimulating factor can also induce IFN. IFN can also be produced in certain parts of the body, such as the peritoneum. It enables cells involved in the defense of viral infections to permanently fight viral infections.