IFNW1

IFNW1 (Interferon, Omega 1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IFNW1 gene. This protein belongs to the interferon family, which are a group of proteins made and released by host cells in response to the presence of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites or tumor cells.

Function

The IFNW1 protein is a cytokine, which are a broad category of small proteins that are important in cell signaling. Cytokines are released by cells and affect the behavior of other cells. Cytokines include chemokines, interferons, interleukins, lymphokines, and tumor necrosis factor but generally not hormones or growth factors.

IFNW1, like other interferons, is released in response to viral infections. It binds to specific cell surface receptors and triggers a series of reactions within the cell that lead to the defense of the cell and the surrounding tissue against the viral infection.

Clinical significance

IFNW1 has been studied in the context of various diseases, including viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. It has been found to have antiviral, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory effects.

See also

• Interferon
• Cytokine
• Gene