Interferon-alpha

Interferon-alpha (in-ter-FEER-on AL-fa, abbreviated as IFN-alpha or IFN-α) is a type of protein and cytokine produced by the body's immune system in response to viral infections.

Etymology

The term "Interferon-alpha" is derived from the English word "interfere", referring to the protein's ability to interfere with viral replication, and the Greek letter "alpha", which is used to distinguish it from other types of interferons.

Function

Interferon-alpha is part of the interferon family of cytokines, which are proteins that are released by host cells in response to the presence of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, and also tumor cells. They are vital for the immune response, as they interfere with the replication of viruses within host cells, activate immune cells, and up-regulate antigen presentation to T lymphocytes.

Clinical Use

Interferon-alpha has been used clinically in the treatment of a number of conditions, including Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B, and certain types of cancer, such as melanoma. It is also used in the treatment of hairy cell leukemia, Kaposi's sarcoma, and follicular lymphoma.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Interferon-alpha can cause side effects. Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, fatigue, headache, and muscle and joint pain. Less common but more serious side effects can include depression, changes in vision, shortness of breath, and changes in the function of the liver or thyroid.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Interferon-alpha
Wikipedia's article - Interferon-alpha

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Interferon-alpha