The interferons: 50 years after their discovery, there is much more to learn

J Biol Chem. 2007 Jul 13;282(28):20047-51. doi: 10.1074/jbc.R700004200. Epub 2007 May 14.

Abstract

The interferons (IFNs) and their receptors represent a subset of the class 2 alpha-helical cytokines that have been in chordates for millions of years. This brief review focuses on the discovery and purification of interferons, cloning of human IFN-alpha and IFN-beta, interferon receptors, activities and therapeutic uses of interferons, and the side effects of interferons.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Evolution
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, 21st Century
  • Humans
  • Interferons / adverse effects
  • Interferons / history
  • Interferons / physiology*
  • Interferons / therapeutic use
  • Receptor, Interferon alpha-beta / history
  • Receptor, Interferon alpha-beta / physiology*

Substances

  • Receptor, Interferon alpha-beta
  • Interferons