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Effect of interferon-alpha 1 from E. coli on some cell functions.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 19, 1980
Summary
Recombinant interferon-alpha 1 (IFN) produced in E. coli demonstrates antiviral activity and immune-modulating properties, similar to natural leukocyte interferon. This cloned protein confirms IFN
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Virology
Background:
- Natural leukocyte interferon (IFN) exhibits diverse biological activities.
- Understanding the specific functions of IFN requires purified, cloned protein species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the biological activities of cloned human interferon-alpha 1 (IFN) produced in Escherichia coli.
- To confirm that observed activities are intrinsic to IFN and not due to contaminating human proteins.
Main Methods:
- Production of human interferon-alpha 1 using a hybrid plasmid in transformed E. coli.
- Assays to evaluate antiviral resistance in target cells.
- Assessment of immune functions: natural killer cell activity, antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and leukocyte migration inhibition.
- Evaluation of antiproliferative effects on Burkitt lymphoma cells.
Main Results:
- Recombinant interferon-alpha 1 induced virus resistance in target cells.
- The cloned IFN enhanced natural killer cell activity and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
- It suppressed antigen- and mitogen-induced leukocyte migration inhibition.
- Inhibition of growth in IFN-sensitive Burkitt lymphoma cells was observed.
Conclusions:
- Interferon-alpha 1 produced in E. coli possesses biological activities comparable to natural leukocyte interferon.
- The study confirms that these diverse immunological and antiviral effects are inherent properties of the interferon-alpha 1 protein itself.