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Electrophoretically pure mouse interferon inhibits growth, induces liver and kidney lesions, and kills suckling mice
Abstract:
Suckling Swiss mice were injected daily for 8 days with either electrophoretically pure (EP) mouse interferon (s.a. 4.7 x 10(8) units/mg protein), major impurities obtained in the course of purification, or partially purified mouse interferon (s.a. 1.3 x 10(7) units/mg protein). Only EP or partially purified interferon inhibited growth, induced liver and kidney lesions, and killed mice. The authors conclude that interferon itself is responsible for these effects.
Insights
Mouse interferon (IFN) was tested for toxicity in young mice. Electrophoretically pure or partially purified IFN caused growth inhibition, organ damage, and mortality, indicating IFN is toxic.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Toxicology
- Virology
Background:
- Interferons (IFNs) are crucial antiviral proteins.
- Understanding the specific biological effects of purified IFNs is essential.
- Previous studies have not fully elucidated the toxicological profile of mouse interferon.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if electrophoretically pure (EP) mouse interferon possesses inherent toxicity.
- To differentiate the effects of EP mouse interferon from impurities generated during purification.
- To assess the toxicological impact of partially purified mouse interferon.
Main Methods:
- Suckling Swiss mice received daily injections for 8 days.
- Treatment groups included EP mouse interferon, major purification impurities, and partially purified mouse interferon.
- Assessed outcomes included growth inhibition, liver and kidney lesions, and mortality.
Main Results:
- Only EP or partially purified mouse interferon induced significant growth inhibition.
- EP and partially purified mouse interferon treatments led to observable liver and kidney lesions.
- Mortality was exclusively observed in mice treated with EP or partially purified mouse interferon.
Conclusions:
- Mouse interferon itself, independent of major impurities, is responsible for observed toxic effects.
- The data strongly suggest that interferon possesses inherent toxic properties.
- These findings highlight the need for careful consideration of interferon's toxicity in therapeutic applications.