Expression of human interferon alpha H, an interferon with two potential asparagine-linked glycosylation sites

Of the large number of human alpha interferon genes identified, only one, Hu-IFN-alpha H, contains potential asparagine-linked glycosylation sites. With the use of a new vector that permits convenient expression, site-specific mutation, and DNA sequencing, Hu-IFN-alpha H was expressed in Escherichia coli. The bacterial product which is not glycosylated is fully active demonstrating that the carbohydrate on this species is not required for antiviral activity.