IFN gamma

Alias: Interferon gamma, IFNγ, IFNG

IFNγ (Type II interferon) is a homodimeric glycoprotein that is produced by activated T, B and NK cells. IFNγ is produced during infection by cytotoxic T cells (CD8+) and by TH1 cells where it preferentially inhibits the proliferation of TH2, resulting in the preferential proliferation of TH1 cells. IFNγ functions as an anti-viral and anti-parasitic agent and also acts in synergy with other cytokines, such as TNFα to inhibit the proliferation of normal and transformed cells. IFNγ induces immunomodulatory effects on a wide range of cell types that includes being a potent activator of mononuclear phagocytes, augmentation of endocytosis and phagocytosis by monocytes, and activation of macrophages to kill tumor cells. Additionally, it enhances the proliferation of activated B cells and can act synergistically with IL-2 to increase immunoglobulin light-chain synthesis. Finally, IFNγ activates neutrophils, NK cells and vascular endothelial cells. The role of IFNγ as a disease marker has been demonstrated for a number of different pathological situations including infections, autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, allergy, and diabetes.