Interferon

Question 1

what are interferons?

Answer 1

cytokines released by body in response to viral infections and neoplasia

Question 2

how are interferons classified?

Answer 2

according to cellular origin + type of receptor they bidn to

Question 3

what does ifn-a bind to?

Answer 3

type 1 receptor

Question 4

what does ifn-b bind to?

Answer 4

type 1 receptor

Question 5

what does ifn-y bind to?

Answer 5

type 2 receptor

Question 6

where is ifn-a made and what is its function?

Answer 6

leucocytes
antiviral action

so useful in hep b and c, kaposi’s sarcoma, metastatic RCC, hairy cell leukaemia

Question 7

adverse effects of ifn-a?

Answer 7

flu-like symptoms
depression
tremor
cough

Question 8

where is ifn-b made and function?

Answer 8

fibroblasts
antiviral action

Question 9

use of ifn-b?

Answer 9

reduces frequency of exacerbations in pt with relapsing-remitting MS

Question 10

where is ifn-y made and function?

Answer 10

mostly nk cells but also t helper
weaker antiviral action, mostly involved in immunomodulation (esp macrophage activation)

Question 11

when is ifn-y useful?

Answer 11

chronic granulomatous disease
osteopetrosis