Biologic Responses to IFN-α Administration in Humans

Abstract

Although interferon-α (IFN-α) was discovered over 40 years ago, it was many years before it was registered as a therapeutic agent. Because of its unique qualities, it has been registered for both antiviral and antitumor indications. In addition to its therapeutic effects in viral diseases and cancer, IFN-α interferes with several important physiologic systems. It interacts with the immune system and affects several neuroendocrine and metabolic circuits. The specific mechanisms by which IFN-α exerts its therapeutic effects are complex, and it is very difficult to tie the biologic actions of IFN-α to specific clinical effects.