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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

High-throughput Quantitative Real-time RT-PCR Assay for Determining Expression Profiles of Types I and III Interferon Subtypes
Published on: March 24, 2015
[Individual changes of gene expression in the interferon system in human blood cells due to amixin and cycloferon]
Abstract:
The action of amixin and cycloferon on the expression of genes in the systems of interferon (IF) and cell apoptosis (CA) was studied by semi-quantitative RT-PCR in human blood microsamples before and after the administration of the drugs. Individual changes were determined in the transcription activity of genes of IF (alpha, beta, gamma), enzymes 2',5' oligoadenylatesynthetase (OAS), RNSase L, dsRNA-dependent proteinkinase (dsPK) and of CA effectors (FasAg, bcl-2, gamma-actin) registered dynamically in 24 h and 48 h. The activity parameters of IF genes were compared with the results of biological titration of IF activity in blood samples in vivo and in vitro. A pronounced ability of cycloferon to stimulate selectively the activity of genes of human IF, type I (beta IF--by 100 times and alpha IF--by 10 times), without affecting essentially the activity of other genes in blood cells, was detected. Amixin was found to inhibit the titration of genes with high activity levels. (alpha-, beta-IF, RNAases L, bcl-2 and gamma-actin). The antiviral and IF-induced properties of the drug are explained to a great extent by the apoptotic effect (activation of genes Fas, gamma-IF, OAS and affected transcription of gene bcl-2). A positive correlation was observed between the processes of activation of IF-genes transcription and the production of the total circulating IF. Antagonistic relations between type I and II IFs in human blood cells were shown.
Insights
Cycloferon selectively boosts interferon (IF) gene activity, while amixin inhibits highly active genes. Both drugs influence cell apoptosis (CA) pathways, impacting antiviral responses and IF production.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Interferons (IF) and cell apoptosis (CA) are critical for immune response and cellular regulation.
- Understanding the molecular mechanisms of antiviral drugs like amixin and cycloferon is essential for their therapeutic application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of amixin and cycloferon on gene expression related to interferon (IF) and cell apoptosis (CA).
- To compare drug-induced gene expression changes with biological interferon activity.
- To elucidate the molecular basis of the antiviral and IF-inducing properties of these drugs.
Main Methods:
- Semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to analyze gene expression in human blood microsamples.
- Dynamic monitoring of gene transcription activity at 24 and 48 hours post-administration.
- Comparison of gene activity parameters with in vivo and in vitro biological titration of IF activity.
Main Results:
- Cycloferon demonstrated a significant, selective stimulation of type I interferon (IF) genes (beta-IF by 100-fold, alpha-IF by 10-fold).
- Amixin inhibited the expression of highly active genes, including alpha-IF, beta-IF, RNAase L, bcl-2, and gamma-actin.
- A positive correlation was observed between IF gene transcription activation and total circulating IF production.
- Antagonistic interactions between type I and type II IFs in human blood cells were identified.
Conclusions:
- Cycloferon exhibits potent selective induction of type I interferons.
- Amixin's mechanism involves the inhibition of specific gene pathways, potentially linked to its antiviral effects via apoptosis.
- The study highlights the complex interplay between interferon and apoptosis pathways modulated by these drugs.
- Findings provide insights into the differential molecular actions of amixin and cycloferon on the human immune system.
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