Microbiology 1: Interferon Flashcards
Define “interferon”
Soluble cytokine produced when cells are exposed to a virus that stimulates de novo transcription of IF-stimulated genes to cause a cytokine storm
What is the general stimulus for IFN production?
PAMP recognition
What element of a virus acts as a PAMP?
Viral nucleic acid
What sort of PRR is found in the cytoplasm?
Rig-1 like receptors (RLRs)
What sort of PRR is found in endosomes?
Toll-like receptors (TLRs)
Recall the site of production of each subtype of type 1 IFN
IFN-alpha = plasmacytoid dendritic cells IFN-beta = all cells
Recall the TF that leads to the production of each of the subtypes of type 1 IFN
Alpha = IRF7 Beta = IRF3
Where is the IFN-alpha receptor present?
All tissues
Describe the structure of the IFNAR
Heterodimer
Through which receptor does each of the subtypes of tye 1 IFN signal?
IFNAR
Which type of IFN is always first to be made?
Type 1 IFN Beta
What is the function of IFN beta?
Indices anti-viral state i neighbouring cells
Recall the 3 major functions of type 1 IFN
Induce antimicrobial state
Modulate innate immunity
Activate adaptive immunity
How many isotypes are there of each of the subtypes of tye 1 IFN?
IFN alpha has 13
IFN beta has 1
What type of IFN is type2 IFN?
IFN gamma