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Tumour necrosis factors alpha and beta inhibit virus replication and synergize with interferons

G H Wong, D V Goeddel

    Nature
    |October 5, 1986
    PubMed

    Insights

    Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and TNF-beta exhibit antiviral properties, working with interferons (IFNs) to protect cells from viral infections. These tumour necrosis factors selectively kill virus-infected cells, independent of IFN induction.

    Area of Science:

    • Immunology
    • Virology
    • Molecular Biology

    Background:

    • Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and lymphotoxin are structurally related proteins with similar biological activities.
    • Initially identified for their tumoricidal effects, their broader roles in immune responses were recognized.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the antiviral activities of TNF-alpha and TNF-beta.
    • To determine if TNF-alpha and TNF-beta synergize with interferons (IFNs) in antiviral defense.
    • To explore the mechanism of TNF-mediated antiviral effects.

    Main Methods:

    • Treatment of diverse cell types with TNF-alpha and TNF-beta.
    • Co-treatment with interferons (IFNs).
    • Assessment of resistance to RNA and DNA virus infection.
    • Evaluation of TNF production in response to viral infection.

    Main Results:

    • Both TNF-alpha and TNF-beta demonstrated significant antiviral activity against both RNA and DNA viruses.
    • TNF-alpha and TNF-beta synergized with IFNs to enhance viral resistance in various cell types.
    • The antiviral effects of TNFs were independent of induced IFN synthesis.
    • Virus-infected cells were selectively killed by TNFs, an effect accelerated by IFN-gamma.
    • Viral infection was found to induce the production of TNFs.

    Conclusions:

    • TNF-alpha and TNF-beta possess potent antiviral activities.
    • TNFs play a crucial role in the innate immune response to viral infections.
    • The synergistic interaction between TNFs and IFNs enhances cellular defense against viruses.

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