Interferon kappa

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Interferon kappa (IFN-κ) is a type of interferon that is part of the Type I interferon family. It is a cytokine that plays a crucial role in the immune response against viral infections.

Function[edit | edit source]

Interferon kappa is produced by keratinocytes, the predominant cell type in the epidermis. It is involved in the immune response by inducing the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) that have antiviral properties.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The structure of interferon kappa is similar to other type I interferons. It is a protein that is composed of approximately 200 amino acids.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Interferon kappa has been implicated in several diseases, including psoriasis, lupus, and cancer. It is also being studied for its potential use in the treatment of hepatitis C and HIV.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research on interferon kappa is ongoing, with studies focusing on its role in the immune response, its potential therapeutic uses, and its involvement in disease.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD