[Biological properties and clinical applications of interferon gamma (IFN-gamma)]

Abstract

Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) is produced by activated T cells and probably by NK cells. Its production can be induced by mitogens, antigens and other molecules. IFN-gamma interacts with cells by binding to specific membrane receptors. IFN-gamma--1b is an Escherichia coli--derived recombinant DNA product, which has biological activity identical to natural human IFN-gamma. This IFN type is a more potent immunomodulator than IFN-alpha and IFN-beta. Long term treatment with a therapeutic dosage of IFN-gamma--1b produces a significant reduction in the incidence of serious infections in patients with chronic granulomatous disease. This cytokine can be also useful in the treatment of patients with visceral leishmaniasis, Epstein-Barr virus infections, lepromatous leprosy and other infectious diseases. Phase I and II studies have demonstrated it to be capable of producing antitumor effects, especially in metastatic renal cell carcinoma and some hematologic malignancies. Clinical trials have suggested efficacy of IFN-gamma in the treatment of severe atopic dermatitis and rheumatoid arthritis. The most common adverse reactions are fever, headaches and erythema at the injection site.