BIOTECHNOLOGY - V. H. Herasymenko - 2006

Part II. Special Biotechnologies

Chapter 13. BIOTECHNOLOGY OF INTERFERON PRODUCTION

Interferon was first discovered in 1957 by Isaacs and Lindenmann at the National Institute for Medical Research in England. The researchers found that animal Cells exposed to a virus release a factor into their environment that makes fresh, uninfected cells resistant to viral infection. Because this factor interfered with viral Replication within The Cell, it was named interferon. This discovery paved the way for successful breakthroughs in combating viral infections.

Interferons are Proteins whose polypeptide chains consist of 146–166 amino acid residues. Synthesized by vertebrate cells in response to viral infection, they provide non-specific antiviral Immunity. Interferon Biosynthesis is one of the body's most rapid responses to viral invasion, significantly outpacing standard immune system reactions. In fact, interferons serve as the first line of defense against viral attacks. According to medical statistics, viral pathogens account for nearly 95% of all infectious diseases, a trend fully supported by veterinary practice. The intense interest in interferon-based preparations stems from the current shortage of effective etiotropic agents in clinical medicine and veterinary practice for the Prevention and Treatment of viral infections. In addition to their antiviral activity and immune-boosting effects, interferons inhibit the proliferation of abnormal cells, making them valuable anti-tumor agents in Cancer therapy. They also act as immunomodulators, regulating immunological responses while exhibiting antimicrobial and radioprotective properties. Furthermore, interferons have been shown to stimulate phagocytosis and enhance non-specific cellular resistance. Overall immunological reactivity typically correlates with the level of interferon production. Under METABOLISM/18.html">The Influence of interferons, the cytotoxicity and population of killer cells are significantly increased.

At concentrations required for therapeutic efficacy, interferons are relatively harmless to the Organism, although their exact MECHANISM OF ACTION and biological role are not yet fully understood.

Interferon is produced not only in humans but also in many other vertebrates. However, it exhibits strict species Specificity, which is why animal-derived interferons cannot be used for human treatment.