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Published on: August 16, 2021
Role of Interferons in the Development of Diagnostics, Vaccines, and Therapy for Tuberculosis
Kai Ling Chin1, Fadhilah Zulkipli Anis1, Maria E Sarmiento1
1School of Health Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
Abstract:
Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). About one-third of the world's population is latently infected with TB and 5-15% of them will develop active TB in their lifetime. It is estimated that each case of active TB may cause 10-20 new infections. Host immune response to Mtb is influenced by interferon- (IFN-) signaling pathways, particularly by type I and type II interferons (IFNs). The latter that consists of IFN-γ has been associated with the promotion of Th1 immune response which is associated with protection against TB. Although this aspect remains controversial at present due to the lack of established correlates of protection, currently, there are different prophylactic, diagnostic, and immunotherapeutic approaches in which IFNs play an important role. This review summarizes the main aspects related with the biology of IFNs, mainly associated with TB, as well as presents the main applications of these cytokines related to prophylaxis, diagnosis, and immunotherapy of TB.
Insights
Interferons (IFNs) are crucial for the host immune response to tuberculosis (TB). This review explores the biology of IFNs and their role in TB prophylaxis, diagnosis, and immunotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), is a prevalent airborne infection affecting a third of the global population.
- Host immune responses to Mtb are significantly modulated by interferon (IFN) signaling pathways, particularly type I and type II IFNs.
- IFN-gamma (IFN-γ), a type II interferon, is linked to Th1 immune responses, which are considered protective against TB, though correlates of protection are still debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the fundamental biology of interferons (IFNs) in the context of tuberculosis (TB).
- To summarize the current and potential applications of IFNs in the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and immunotherapy of TB.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on interferon biology and its role in tuberculosis.
- Synthesis of information on IFN signaling pathways and their impact on host immunity to Mtb.
- Compilation of data on clinical and preclinical applications of IFNs in TB management.
Main Results:
- IFNs, especially IFN-γ, play a significant role in shaping the immune response to Mtb infection.
- IFNs are integral to various prophylactic, diagnostic, and immunotherapeutic strategies for TB.
- Understanding IFN biology offers insights into developing novel TB control measures.
Conclusions:
- Interferons are key cytokines in the host defense against tuberculosis.
- IFNs hold significant promise for advancing TB prevention, detection, and treatment strategies.
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