IFN-gamma: Proteins and Enzymes

IFN-gamma (Interferon-gamma) is the prototype proinflammatory cytokine and is produced by a variety of immune cells under inflammatory conditions, notably by T cells and NK cells. It plays a key role in host defense by promoting the development and activation of Th1 cells, chemoattraction and activation of monocytes and macrophages, upregulation of antigen presentation molecules, and immunoglobulin class switching in B cells. It also exhibits antiviral, antiproliferative, and apoptotic effects. In addition, IFN-gamma functions as an anti-inflammatory mediator by promoting the development of regulatory T cells and inhibiting Th17 cell differentiation. IFN-gamma dimers signal through a receptor complex of two IFN-gamma R1 and two IFN-gamma R2 subunits.