Interferons as biomarkers and effectors: lessons learned from animal models

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Molecular Biology
• Virology

Background:

• Interferons (IFNs) are crucial cytokines with diverse biological effects mediated by Interferon-Stimulated Genes (ISGs).
• IFN and ISG profiles offer potential as biomarkers for disease prognosis in various conditions.
• Animal models are instrumental in dissecting IFN response mechanisms and disease pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of Interferon (IFN) roles in viral infections and autoimmune diseases.
• To highlight the utility of Interferon-Stimulated Genes (ISGs) as potential disease biomarkers.
• To discuss insights gained from animal models regarding IFN system parameters and their clinical relevance.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on Interferons (IFNs) and Interferon-Stimulated Genes (ISGs).
• Analysis of data from animal models of viral infections and autoimmune diseases.
• Examination of the role of gene knockout models in understanding IFN responses.

Main Results:

• IFN and ISG sets can establish distinct immunological signatures for different diseases.
• Animal models demonstrate cause-and-effect relationships in the IFN response pathway.
• IFN system parameters identified in animal models correlate with disease outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Interferons (IFNs) and their ISG products are valuable biomarkers for predicting disease outcomes.
• Insights from animal models guide the development of targeted therapies and vaccines.
• Understanding IFN responses is critical for advancing clinical research and therapeutic strategies.