Interferon receptor

Interferon receptors are a type of protein that are found on the surface of cells and are responsible for binding to interferons, a group of signaling proteins produced and released by host cells in response to the presence of several viruses. In a typical scenario, a virus-infected cell will release interferons causing nearby cells to heighten their anti-viral defenses.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Interferon receptors are made up of multiple subunits, which can vary depending on the type of interferon they bind to. The most common types of interferon receptors are the Interferon alpha/beta receptors and the Interferon gamma receptors. These receptors are composed of two chains, the alpha chain (IFNAR1) and the beta chain (IFNAR2) for the alpha/beta receptors, and the IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 chains for the gamma receptors.

Function[edit | edit source]

When an interferon receptor binds to an interferon, it triggers a cascade of intracellular events. This includes the activation of the Janus kinase (JAK) and the Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways. These pathways lead to the expression of certain genes that help the cell resist viral infection, inhibit cell growth, and modulate the immune response.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Interferon receptors play a crucial role in the immune response to viral infections. Mutations in the genes encoding these receptors can lead to a variety of conditions, including increased susceptibility to viral infections and certain types of cancer. In addition, interferon receptors are a target for certain antiviral and anticancer drugs.