They are a group of proteins that are made and released by host cells in response to the presence of pathogens (such as viruses, bacteria or parasites). They act as antiviral agents and modulate functions of the immune system. Interferons are of many types: IF α, IF β and IF γ. These interferons have been classified into two types: type I includes the alpha and beta forms, and type II consists of the gamma form. Type I interferons can be produced by almost any cell upon stimulation by a virus; their primary function is to induce viral resistance in cells. Type II interferon is secreted only by natural killer cells and T lymphocytes; its main purpose is to signal the immune system to respond to infectious agents or cancerous growth.
Related Journals of Interferons
Journal of Antivirals & Antiretrovirals, Journal of Human Papillomavirus, HIV & Retro Virus, Virology & Antiviral Research, Advances in Influenza Research, Journal of Interferon & Cytokine Research, Interferons, Viral Immunology, Viral Immunology, Journal of Vaccines and Vaccination,Virology & Antiviral Research, Viral Immunology
