interferons


interferons

A considerable range of antiviral protein substances produced by cells that have been invaded by viruses. Interferons are released by such cells and provide protection to other cells liable to be invaded, not only by the original virus, but also by any other infecting organism. They also modify various cell-regulating mechanisms and slow down the growth of cancers. Alpha-interferons are derived from various white cells of the immune system; interferon beta from fibroblasts; and interferon gamma from T LYMPHOCYTES (T cells). Interferons can be produced in quantity by GENETIC ENGINEERING methods and are effective in the treatment of a variety of virus-associated conditions including Kaposi's sarcoma, the common cold, herpes simplex infections, genital warts and an uncommon form of leukaemia, hairy cell leukaemia.