Divergent effects of type-I interferons on regulatory T cells

Type-I interferons (IFNs), namely IFN-α and IFN-β families, have been initially characterized in the light of their ability to interfere with viral infections in several types of somatic cells. Many other activities have been soon identified, including those directed toward cells of the immune system, which possibly represent the most relevant manifestations of the IFN system [1]. Virtually all aspects of an immune response can be modulated by type-I IFNs, in line with the widespread expression of their receptors and with the extensive impact of their signals on gene expression modulation.

Source: Cytokine and Growth Factor Reviews - October 30, 2014 Category: Molecular Biology Authors: Silvia Piconese, Ilenia Pacella, Eleonora Timperi, Vincenzo Barnaba Source Type: research