Interferons are naturally occurring proteins with both antiviral and antiproliferative properties. They are produced and secreted in response to viral infections and to a variety of other synthetic and biological inducers. The interferon family contains at least 15 different molecular species.
Interferons bind to specific membrane receptors on cell surfaces.
Binding of interferon to membrane receptors initiates a series of events including induction of protein synthesis. These actions are followed by a variety of cellular responses, including inhibition of virus replication and suppression of cell proliferation. Immunomodulation, including enhancement of phagocytosis by macrophages, augmentation of the cytotoxicity of lymphocytes and enhancement of human leukocyte antigen expression occurs in response to exposure to interferons. Antiviral and antiproliferative actions are thought to be related to alterations in synthesis of RNA, DNA, and cellular proteins, including oncogenes. To date, no antibodies to interferon alfa-n3 have been detected in tested patients.