Lambda interferons come to light: dual function cytokines mediating antiviral immunity and damage control

Curr Opin Immunol. 2019 Feb:56:67-75. doi: 10.1016/j.coi.2018.10.007. Epub 2018 Nov 3.

Abstract

Lambda interferons (IFNλs, type III IFNs or interleukins-28/29) were described fifteen years ago as novel cytokines sharing structural and functional homology with IL-10 and type I IFNs, respectively. IFNλs engage a unique receptor complex comprising IFNLR1 and IL10R2, nevertheless they share signaling cascade and many functions with type I IFNs, questioning their possible non-redundant roles and overall biological importance. Here, we review the latest evidence establishing the primacy of IFNλs in front line protection at anatomical barriers, mediating antiviral immunity before type I IFNs. We also discuss their emerging role in regulating inflammation and limiting host damage, a major difference to type I IFNs. IFNλs come thus to light as dual function cytokines mediating antiviral immunity and damage control.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiviral Agents / metabolism*
  • Apoptosis
  • Humans
  • Immunity
  • Inflammation / immunology*
  • Interferon Type I / metabolism*
  • Interferons / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Interferon / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Interleukin-10 / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Virus Diseases / immunology*

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • IFNLR1 protein, human
  • Interferon Type I
  • Receptors, Interferon
  • Receptors, Interleukin-10
  • interferon-lambda, human
  • Interferons