IFNA6

IFNA6 is a gene that encodes the protein Interferon alpha-6 in humans. This protein is a part of the Interferon family, which are proteins released by host cells in response to the presence of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, and also tumor cells.

Function

The protein encoded by the IFNA6 gene is produced by leukocytes and is a member of the alpha interferon family. These proteins are cytokines that are involved in a variety of biological processes, including viral infection, immune response, cell growth regulation, and differentiation. Interferons are produced by cells in response to the presence of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, and tumor cells. Interferons assist the immune response by inhibiting viral replication within host cells, activating natural killer cells and macrophages, increasing antigen presentation to lymphocytes, and inducing the resistance of host cells to viral infection.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the function of the IFNA6 gene or its protein product can have significant clinical implications. Abnormal activity of this gene has been associated with conditions such as autoimmune diseases and cancer. In cancer, for example, the IFNA6 protein may be used as a therapeutic agent due to its ability to inhibit tumor growth and stimulate the immune system.

See Also

• Interferon
• Cytokine
• Immune response
• Viral infection
• Autoimmune diseases
• Cancer

References

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