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Interferons (IFNs) are low molecular weight proteins that belong to the class of glycoproteins known as cytokines. IFNs are part of the non-specific immune system and are an important first line of defense against viral infections. They are released by host cells in response to the presence of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites or tumor cells. IFNs have other functions: they activate immune cells, such as natural killer cells and macrophages; they increase recognition of infection or tumor cells by up-regulating antigen presentation to T lymphocytes; and they increase the ability of uninfected host cells to resist new infection by virus. Host symptoms, such as aching muscles and fever, are related to the production of IFNs during infection.

Interferons are also important in drug therapy for many diseases involving the immune system with extensive research being carried out on their use to treat diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Hepatitis. The mechanism of action by which interferons work is complex and advances in medicine and our understanding of the role of interferons will make a substantial impact on how diseases will be treated in the future.  

PBL offers scientists a comprehensive range of interferons from different species and of different classes including multiple IFN-alpha and IFN-beta subtypes. Our IFNs are high purity, provide consistent performance and biological activity and are suitable for use in a range of research applications including ELISA and cytopathic inhibition assays.

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Interferon Species and Subtypes