Interferons are a group of signalling proteins released by host cells against viruses. If a cell is infected by a virus, it will release interferons to stimulate nearby cells for increasing their immune responses. These are also called the cytokines which create communicate between the infected cells. In short, their name comes from interfering with the viral replication. Other functions are activating the immune cells like natural killer cells and macrophages. They increase host defenses by regulating the antigen presentation. There are types of Interferons: Alpha, Beta and Gamma. Alpha, is produced in leucocytes infected with virus, while Beta is in fibroblasts infected by the virus. Gamma is synthesized by lymphocytes with the virus.
Interpretation:All Interferon types and tests give the clinician information for a diagnostic and follow up treatment.
Sample: Arm vein blood. Nonfasting
Working day: Everyday
Result Time: Next day 6:00 PM
