Interferon, << `ihn` tuhr FIHR on, >> is a protein produced by various body cells in response to viral infections. Interferons protect other cells from becoming infected by the virus. Interferons also are produced if certain harmful chemicals and drugs enter the body. Researchers have tested interferons in the treatment of many diseases, including certain cancers.
There are three types of interferons: alpha, beta, and gamma. Alpha and beta interferon are produced by many types of cells throughout the body. Gamma interferon, also called immune interferon, is produced by white blood cells called lymphocytes. All three interferons are released by the cells within a few hours after a viral infection occurs. They bind to the cells that border the infection and prevent the virus from spreading. Some interferon enters the bloodstream, where more is produced to help protect the rest of the body. In addition to its antiviral properties, gamma interferon acts as a signal molecule in triggering an immune response to many kinds of infections. An immune response is the process by which the body produces disease-fighting cells and antibodies. See Immune system.
Interferon was jointly discovered in England by the Scottish virologist Alick Isaacs and the Swiss virologist Jean Lindenmann in 1957. In the late 1960’s, Kari J. Cantell, a Finnish virologist, developed techniques for obtaining interferons from human white blood cells. Today, scientists use techniques of molecular biology to manufacture large quantities of interferons.
Interferons are used to treat hepatitis C, hairy-cell leukemia, and Kaposi’s sarcoma, a cancer often found in people who have AIDS. They also may be useful against skin cancer and certain viral diseases, including hepatitis B.
