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Updated: Jan 7, 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
Context-Specific Diversity of Antimicrobial Functions of Interferon-Stimulated Genes
Munesh K Harioudh1,2, Saumendra N Sarkar1,2
1Program in Oncology, Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
Abstract:
Interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) were initially discovered for their role in antiviral functions. However, recent studies show evidence of a diverse and context-specific regulatory function of these genes in antiviral and antibacterial protection. The molecular mechanisms of such activities vary depending on the pathogen, cell type, isoform, and species. In this review, we summarize the context-specific functions of several prominent and well-known ISG families, including OAS, IFITs, ISG15, viperin, ADAR1, and Mx proteins. We provide examples of distinct enzymatic or regulatory mechanisms that are employed by these ISGs to carry out their diverse functions, including nucleic acid sensing, RNA degradation, translation inhibition, membrane remodeling, etc.
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