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The human interferon alpha species and receptors
1Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854-5635, USA. Pestka@Genetics.Rugtgers.edu
Biopolymers
|February 15, 2001
Summary
Interferon-alpha, the first biotherapeutic, was approved in 1986. This review covers human interferon alpha genes, proteins, and receptors, highlighting our limited understanding of human interferons.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) marked a milestone as the first approved biotherapeutic in 1986.
- Its approval paved the way for numerous cytokines and growth factors.
- Despite its significance, the full scope of human interferons remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical purification of human leukocyte interferon.
- To summarize current knowledge on human interferon alpha genes, proteins, and receptors.
- To underscore the need for further research into the diverse human interferon family.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on historical purification techniques.
- Synthesis of current research on interferon alpha molecular biology.
- Analysis of data pertaining to interferon receptors.
Main Results:
- The historical purification of human leukocyte interferon was a foundational step.
- Significant progress has been made in understanding interferon alpha genes and proteins.
- Knowledge regarding interferon receptors is expanding.
Conclusions:
- Interferon-alpha's development was a pivotal moment in biotherapeutics.
- Current understanding of human interferons, particularly interferon alpha, is substantial but incomplete.
- Further investigation into the broader human interferon family is warranted.
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