Alpha and gamma interferons. Interferon gamma human recombinant. There are two groups of interferon inducers

INTERFERON alpha, beta and gamma: immunomodulators in strengthening immunity and prevention.

Interferon human ( alpha, beta, gamma) is produced by various immunocompetent cells. System functions interferon- nonspecific protection of the body from the introduction of various viruses and bacteria ( alpha And beta interferon), as well as control over the genetic constancy of the body's cells. Those. supervision over the timely destruction of cancer cells ( gamma interferon). System failure interferon manifests itself in the presence of foci of chronic viral and bacterial infection in the body, their frequent exacerbation with the formation of omega at the source of infection interferon, the appearance of malignant tumors.

Interferons are divided into three main types:
Interferon alpha or leukocyte interferon, synthesized by peripheral blood leukocytes.
Interferon beta or fibroblastic interferon, is produced by fibroblasts in response to the same stimuli as interferon-alpha.
Interferon gamma or immune interferon, produced by stimulated T-lymphocytes, NK cells, macrophages.

Interferon omega is produced directly at the site of infection.

In order to strengthen the nonspecific resistance of the body, for fortifications immunity, prevention diseases can be used to increase the level interferon in the blood in several ways.

The simplest and least physiological way is the introduction into the body of drugs containing interferon. In this way you can quickly increase the level interferon in blood. However, all drugs are not without side effects and contraindications.

A more natural, but less powerful way is the use of stimulants for the synthesis of endogenous interferon. Those. drugs that increase the synthesis of human interferon. Considering that this group of drugs is not without side effects and contraindications, I recommend paying more attention to more natural stimulators of the formation of endogenous interferon.

One of the natural stimulators of endogenous synthesis interferon is an increase in body temperature. Therefore, in case of viral and bacterial infections, I advise you not to reduce the temperature by any means or methods. And control it in a safe range (up to 39 degrees Celsius). And accompany the infection by activating the detoxification system.

In addition, I offer the time-tested and clinically certified proprietary herbal medicine “Doctor Skachko’s Health Formula No. 1”. The use of formula No. 1 allows you to activate the process of digesting protein foods and ensure its high efficiency at various stages. Those. starting with digestion in the stomach, continuing the digestion of proteins in small intestine under the influence of pancreatic enzymes and ensure absorption and processing in the liver. Those. ensure the process of synthesis of endogenous interferon at the metabolic level. And after this the body will begin to produce alpha, beta, gamma or omega interferon- not the point is important. The body is a self-regulating system. More precisely than in the body, regulate synthesis interferon Not sure it's going to happen. It is only important to ensure this process at the metabolic level. And control strengthening immunity medications taken, immunomodulators.

Good health to you all. And a reasonable attitude towards him.

Doctor Boris Skachko, doctor, 7th generation herbalist, author of 20 published books and brochures (including ), more than 40 scientific, more than 300 popular articles on the topics: herbal medicine, valeology, correct, healthy eating, healthy image life, strengthening the immune system.

Articles by Dr. Boris Skachko on the topic: how to INCREASE and STRENGTHEN IMMUNITY.

INTERFERONS (IFN) is a general name under which a number of proteins with similar structural and functional properties are currently combined, which in the vast majority of cases are actively produced by the body's cells when infected with a virus. These proteins are the most important components of the body’s innate nonspecific defense against infections and tumor transformations.

Interferons were discovered by Isaac and Lindeman in 1957 as antiviral agents, but upon subsequent study it was found that the functions of interferons in the cell are not limited to antiviral action: properties common to this large group of proteins also turned out to be antiproliferative activity (the ability to suppress cell reproduction), which further determined the possibility of their use to inhibit the development malignant neoplasms, and the ability to influence the state immune system, that is, perform the role of immunomodulators in the body.

Variety of interferons

There are three main classes of interferons, where each class combines proteins of the same type (I, II or III). The relationship of interferon to one type or another is determined by the type of receptor that binds them.

Type I interferons share a common IFN-alpha receptor (IFNAR), consisting of an alpha subunit (IFNAR1) and a short or long beta subunit (IFNAR2) (1). In mammals, this type includes the following main types of interferons: alpha, beta, omega, upsilon, kappa and tau.

Type II interferons bind to the IFNGR receptor and are represented by only one type - interferon gamma.

Type III interferons, lambda interferons, bind to the IFNLR1 receptor.

Interferon-alpha

Interferon-alpha is produced by various types of cells, but its main source in the body is leukocytes, in which its synthesis is sharply activated in response to a viral infection of the body (1). In this regard, it is usually called “leukocyte” interferon. It is encoded in mammals by a whole family of genes, forming a corresponding family of “products” (IFN-alpha subtypes): for example, in humans there are about 20 of them, in cats - 14; for a dog - 8, etc. (2). Representatives of the family are very similar in structure (the percentage of sequence homology is 96-99%).

Interferon-alpha complex with interferon-alpha receptor (PDB 3SE4) (Fig. 1*)

Interferon-alpha is the most widely used drug of interferon nature in human and veterinary medicine today. It is used for all possible purposes: as an immunomodulator, and as an antiviral, and as an antitumor agent. Natural and recombinant IFN-alpha is the active component of a huge number of drugs produced in Russia and abroad. Today, interferon-alpha is used in the treatment of hepatitis B and C, encephalitis and meningoencephalitis, conjunctivitis, keratoconjunctivitis, cytomegalovirus and herpetic infections, chlamydia, toxoplasmosis, various oncological diseases(acute lymphoblastic leukemia, hairy cell leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, chronic myeloid leukemia, multiple myeloma, thrombocytosis, renal cell carcinoma, ovarian cancer, superficial cancer Bladder, malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma of the skin), influenza, ARVI and others.

The main vector of action and target is antiviral activity and activation of natural killer cells.

Interferon-tau

Interferon-tau was first discovered in 1982 in sheep, a little later in cows, and also in some birds. Interferon of the tau type is encoded in animals by several genes and is represented in the body by a whole group of corresponding protein products, which is also typical for two other types of type I IFN, namely alpha and omega interferons.

Interferon-tau (PDB 1B5L) (Fig. 2*)

Interferon beta

The synthesis of beta-interferon is carried out by many types of cells: fibroblasts, epithelial and endothelial cells, lymphoid cells and astrocytes are capable of producing this form of IFN, but the most active producers of beta-interferon are fibroblasts, which is why it is often called “fibroblast”. Functional interferon beta in all mammalian species, including humans, is encoded by only one gene, and like interferon gamma, it is a strictly species-specific protein. Interferon-beta, like all other types of interferons, can be used for viral infections, but is preferably used in the treatment multiple sclerosis(RS) and series chronic diseases nervous system, where today it gives the best (in comparison with other forms) results.

Crystal structure of interferon-beta (PDB 1AU1) (Fig. 3*)

The most well-known drugs for the fight against MS based on interferon beta-1 are Rebif (Serono Farma Int, Italy), Avonex (Biogen, the Netherlands); Genfaxon, (Tutor, Argentina). However, a drug (oral) for the treatment of MS based on interferon-tau is currently undergoing the latest clinical trials in the USA, the essential feature of which is that it is more stable and practically does not produce the typical effects of interferons. side effects (4).

The main type of biological action is antiviral activity.

Interferon-beta complex – interferon receptor IFNAR1 (PDB 3WCY) (Fig. 4*)

Interferon-omega

Interferon-omega (most often a family of closely related proteins encoded by several genes) has many common features specifically with alpha interferons: leukocytes as the main producers; high level of amino acid sequence homology; interaction with the same receptor (type I); similar spectrum of action and level of antiviral activity. Human interferon-omega was discovered independently in 1985 by three different groups of researchers (5,6,7). Due to the above-mentioned structural and functional similarity with interferon-alpha, the first group of authors initially proposed to consider it as a subclass of IFN-alpha (alpha subtype II). However, significant differences between these forms were subsequently identified, the main of which are the different mechanism of interaction with the receptor (binding to different parts of it), leading to the launch of different signals and, most importantly, differences in the antigenic nature, as a result of which antibodies to interferon - alpha do not block the activity of interferon-omega.

Recombinant human IFN-omega has been proposed and successfully used to treat many human diseases: various viral infections, in particular AIDS, herpes infections, SARS, hepatitis B and C, as well as various forms of cancer. Particularly noteworthy is the success of using IFN-omega in conditions of ineffective treatment with IFN-alpha, in particular when the patient initially has or acquires resistance to the drug as a result of long-term previous treatment with the alpha form. By “triggering” signals other than interferon alpha, IFN-omega turns out to be functional where the action of the alpha form is inhibited.

Interferon gamma

Interferon gamma occupies a special position in the interferon family not only due to the fact that it has its own receptor on the cell surface, but also due to the combination of functional features that bring it closer to some interleukins. Although interferon gamma was discovered for its ability to have an antiviral effect, it was later discovered that it, like others, is a pleiotropic lymphokine with multiple effects, which it has mainly on growth and differentiation different types cells associated with natural immunity: interferon gamma induces differentiation of myeloid cells, as a result of which they acquire the functional properties of more mature monocytes; stimulates the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II and MHC class I antigens, is a powerful activator of macrophages, which destroy antigenic molecules and forms that have entered the cell. Having all three functions typical of interferons, this type of interferon implements them primarily through the immune mechanism. Hence its common name – “immune interferon”.

Crystal structure of interferon-gamma (PDB 1HIG) (Fig. 5*)

The producing cells of endogenous interferon gamma are T helper cells (CD4), immunological memory cells (CD45PA), T killer cells (CD8), NK cells (CD16, CD56), dendritic cells (CD23, CD35), B lymphocytes ( CD22, CD23), which synthesize certain levels of it even in the absence of viral infection. In both humans and all animals, gamma interferon is encoded by a single gene and is a protein characterized by high species specificity. Interferon gamma is widely used to treat infectious, oncological, autoimmune and allergic diseases. The most well-known drugs containing it as an active principle include drugs with recombinant IFN-gamma1b Immukin (Boehringer, Germany) and Actimmune (InterMune Pharm., USA), as well as Russian Ingaron (Pharmaclon, Russia).

The main function is activation of macrophages, enhancement of the Th1-type T-helper response, induction of the expression of major histocompatibility complex type II antigens on antigen-presenting cells. In addition, interferon gamma exhibits antiviral and antiproliferative (antitumor) activity.

Interferon-gamma complex with its receptor. (PDB 1FG9) (Fig.6*)

Lambda interferons

Lambda interferons were discovered in 2003. They were originally classified as interleukins and identified as IL-29 (now IFN-lambda1), IL-28A (now IFN-lambda2) and IL-28B (now IFN-lambda3). Later, a fourth form was discovered - IFN-lambda4, which is expressed in small quantities and was determined as a result of a reading frame shift in the lambda 3 gene. Due to the structural features and the presence of its own receptor, IFN-lambda is classified as an independent, third (III) type of interferon.

Although interferon-alpha and interferon-lambda bind to different receptors, they trigger the same cascade of Jak-STAT phosphorylation reactions and ultimately modulate the activity of the same group of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), leading to to a similar cell response. As a result of numerous studies, it was found that the class of lambda interferons in the body is not “redundant” in relation to alpha interferons, since they have different tissue specificity and different attitude To various types viral infection. The main conclusion from this series of works should be considered that the unique purpose of class III interferons is to protect the skin, lungs and gastrointestinal tract from the action of viruses, mainly belonging to the rotavirus family.

Mechanism of action

The result of the binding of an interferon molecule to a cellular receptor is the activation in the cell of the so-called “signaling pathways” - complex complexes of interconnected phosphorylation reactions involving numerous protein kinases, including those associated with receptors. The phosphorylation cascade leads to the activation of many protein factors, in particular STAT transcription factors. Activated factors transcriptions move into the nucleus and affect the transcription of certain genes, most of them directly or indirectly related to the process of protein synthesis.

In addition to influencing genes associated with the translation process, interferons can activate hundreds of other genes (these are known as ISGs - interferon-stimulated genes) that play a role in protecting the cell from viruses. For example, by activating the p53 protein, which turns on the mechanism of apoptosis of the infected cell, interferons limit the spread of viral particles.

The second direction of action of interferons is the stimulation of cells of the immune system. In particular, interferons increase the synthesis of molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) classes I and II and activate the immunoproteasome, which processes viral peptides. High level MHC class II molecules ensure the presentation of viral antigens to T-helper cells, which secrete cytokines that coordinate the activity of other cells of the immune system. Some types of interferons are capable of directly stimulating cells of the immune system, such as macrophages and natural killer cells.

It's obvious that simultaneous use interferons of many cellular (biochemical, molecular biological and immune) mechanisms for the implementation of their functions, ensures extremely high efficiency of these agents in the implementation of any of the three main functions.

At the same time, the “switching on” under the influence of interferons of a large number of multidirectional biochemical reactions increases the possibility of unpredictable and not always beneficial effects (side effects) for the body. Indeed, as practice shows various drugs interferon, during the course of treatment side effects from the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, gastrointestinal tract, blood-forming organs and sensory organs. In particular, from the sensory organs, ischemic retinopathy, nerve palsy, and significant visual impairment can develop. On the skin side, urticaria, itching, burning, dryness, furunculosis, as well as various rashes skin.

Cases of neurological and psychopathological disorders, including interferon-induced depression, have been reported. It is believed that in most cases, side effects occur with parenteral use, but their development is also possible in cases of use of suppositories, ointments and other pharmaceutical forms, especially in the case of long courses of treatment. From the above it follows that when using drugs based on interferons to treat humans and animals Special attention should be given to a thorough study of them in terms of current concentrations, frequency and forms of application.

Literature

1. de Weerd, et al. (2007) J Biol Chem.2007 Jul 13;282(28), 20053-20057 (.pdf)
2. Taira et al. (2005) J. Vet. Med. Sci. 67(10), 1059-1062 (.pdf)
3. R.M.Roberts, L.Liu, A.Alexenko (1997) Nucl. Acids Res. Mol. Biol. 56, 287-325
4. Nagaya et al. (2004) J.Med.Vet. Sci., 66(11), 1395-1401 (.pdf)
5. Capon, D. J., et al. (1985) Mol. Cell. Biol., 1985, 5: 768-779 (.pdf)
6. Feinstein, S. et al. (1985) Mol. Cell. Biol., 1985, 5:510-517 (.pdf)
7. Hauptmann and Swetly, Nucleic. Acids Res., 1985, 13: 4739-4749(.pdf)

*
Fig.1. Image from the RCSB PDB (www.rcsb.org) of PDB ID 3SE3 (Thomas, C., Moraga, I., Levin, D., Krutzik, P.O., Podoplelova, Y., Trejo, A., Lee, C., Yarden, G., Vleck, S. E., Glenn, J. S., Nolan, G. P., Piehler, J., Schreiber, G., Garcia, K. C. (2011) Structural linkage between ligand discrimination and receptor activation by type I interferons. Cell (Cambridge, Mass. ) 146: 621-632).

Fig.2. Image from the RCSB PDB (www.rcsb.org) of PDB ID 1B5L (Radhakrishnan, R., Walter, L.J., Subramaniam, P.S., Johnson, H.M., Walter, M.R. (1999) Crystal structure of ovine interferon-tau at 2.1 A resolution. J. Mol. Biol. 286: 151-162).

Fig.3. Image from the RCSB PDB (www.rcsb.org) of PDB ID 1AU1 (Karpusas, M., Nolte, M., Benton, C.B., Meier, W., Lipscomb, W.N., Goelz, S. (1997) The crystal structure of human interferon beta at 2.2-A resolution. Proc.Natl.Acad.Sci.USA 94: 11813-11818).

Fig.4. Image from the RCSB PDB (www.rcsb.org) of PDB ID 3WCY (de Weerd, N.A., Vivian, J.P., Nguyen, T.K., Mangan, N.E., Gould, J.A., Braniff, S.J., Zaker-Tabrizi, L., Fung , K.Y., Forster, S.C., Beddoe, T., Reid, H.H., Rossjohn, J., Hertzog, P.J. (2013) Structural basis of a unique interferon beta signaling axis mediated via the IFNAR1 receptor.).

Fig.5. Image from the RCSB PDB (www.rcsb.org) of PDB ID 1HIG (Ealick, S.E., Cook, W.J., Vijay-Kumar, S., Carson, M., Nagabhushan, T.L., Trotta, P.P., Bugg, C.E. (1991 ) Three-dimensional structure of recombinant human interferon-gamma. Science 252: 698-702).

Fig.6. Image from the RCSB PDB (www.rcsb.org) of PDB ID 1FG9 (Thiel, D.J., le Du, M.H., Walter, R.L., D"Arcy, A., Chene, C., Fountoulakis, M., Garotta, G. ., Winkler, F. K., Ealick, S. E. (2000) Observation of an unexpected third receptor molecule in the crystal structure of the human interferon-gamma receptor complex. Structure Fold. Des. 8: 927-936).

Interferon status is a study of the state of human immunity. In this study, the entire system of interferons is studied, in what quantities they are present in human blood. By their origin, these substances belong to proteins. They are induced only when virus cells or tumor formations enter the human body. That is why an analysis of interferon status is carried out at a time when a person is sick. The result of the analysis determines how well the immune system copes with the disease, how the body tolerates the drugs used to enhance immunity. And is there a need to increase your own interferon? medicines.It is worth noting that if you conduct such a blood test healthy person then the indicators will be minimal, and IFN-alpha and IFN-gamma will be produced in small quantities.

Immunoassays

When analyzing interferon status, the content in the blood is examined:

• Serum interferon – that is, the totality of all interferon in the test volume of blood.
• Spontaneous interferon.
• Alpha or induced alpha IGF.
• Gamma. This species is carefully studied when assessing the condition of children on possible infection their tuberculosis. For this purpose, PPD-L is carried out - or tuberculin, which is used to carry out the mantoux test. In Russia, manta samples are carried out annually. If the gamma IGF and Ppd l indicators increase, a diagnosis of an acute tuberculosis process is made. An immunological test to check IGF gamma levels has been approved after many clinical studies in mice. So, after many tests, it was found that IGF gamma is poorly induced by tuberculosis. A study with the introduction of PPD l carried out for evaluation clinical condition immunity, is carried out in several stages, and the result is assessed by the reaction that occurs on the skin. This method still cannot be called accurate; a slight reaction to the administered PPD is possible due to the loss of lymphocytes. A study of the IGF gamma level is often prescribed additionally.

Three types are synthesized in the human body:

• Alpha interferon or type I interferon. Suitable for treating infections (eg herpes).
• Group II type. These are gamma interferons. They have fewer contraindications and are excellent for preventing viral diseases.
• Type III group – betta. Similar in their effect on alpha, they are suitable for alleviating the condition of viral infections.

Elevated interferon indicates a person’s illness, and different combinations of indicators indicate different degrees of disease. For example, an increase in serum IFN, while IFN alpha and/or gamma is low, indicates an acute stage of the disease.

If after receiving laboratory research interferon is reduced, it is necessary to take measures to increase its content in the blood.

Increased interferon

Increased immunity is directly related to increased interferon levels. Human immunity can be congenital and acquired.

There are many ways to increase immunity, these can be medications offered by official medicine, traditional methods strengthening the immune system and everyday lifestyle plays an important role in this matter. If you do not take care of your body and test its capabilities to the maximum, it is unlikely that you will be able to remain healthy even with regular medication.

Medications

Medicines to increase IGF are classified as inducers. There are many inducing drugs. The active substance can be of either synthetic or natural origin. Their main task is to induce the synthesis of its own IGFs in the body. These drugs are less effective in the body. IN to a greater extent they are suitable for use not in critical cases, but as a means of prevention against influenza or ARVI. After a course of taking the drugs, they are capable of for a long time provide increased level interferons in the blood.

Increasing interferon by drugs has an indirect effect; they trigger a complex process in the human body designed to induce specific genes, which in turn fight the disease.

Drugs are divided into two main groups:

• Natural. These include IFN alpha, gamma and beta. It is important to understand that interferons themselves do not fight the disease, they are designed to increase the stability of the immune system, make it work and rid the body of foreign cells and viruses in the shortest possible time.
• Recombinant. These drugs have a stronger effect on the body. Produced this drug from human blood. This method does not allow the production of large quantities of the drug. There are several known methods for removing this component and all of them have their drawbacks. If we describe the production mechanism in a nutshell, it becomes clear that a human gene is introduced into the IGF produced by microorganisms. Oddly enough, such medicines are cheaper than their natural counterparts. They have a long shelf life. Suitable for people of different ages and for convenience, they are available in different dosage forms. The products on sale include both free-fall and drugs sold only by prescription, most often the latter include injection solutions.

Traditional medicine methods

Increase the stability of the immune system only by means traditional medicine not worth it. But as an additional therapy, with careful study of the method and its safety for health, these methods are quite suitable. Moderation is important in everything; you should not overdo it with the doses of foods you take in order to maintain your health. It is not the product itself that is important, but the value it brings to the body. Interferons are proteins; amino acids are important for the breakdown and absorption of proteins. The level of antioxidants and vitamins consumed is also important.

Lifestyle

A person’s health is influenced by a combination of several components, including lifestyle. This does not mean that you need to live according to a strict schedule, but stick to general rules costs. Moderate physical exercise, proper sleep and rest, diet, avoidance of public places, especially during periods of epidemics. Refusal bad habits and not healthy food. All these simple tips are designed to improve your quality of life.

It is worth using drugs to increase the level of interferons in the blood, but this must be done in reasonable quantities and better on the advice of a doctor.

The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Determination of interferon. Biological significance of the substance in the human body

Today, this substance is used as a medicine, since information has been obtained about the additional immunostimulating effects of interferon.
This substance is made both from natural raw materials and with the help of advances genetic engineering. The drug has been well studied, along with its high effectiveness against viral infections, numerous side effects from this drug have become known. Today in pharmacies you can find various forms of this drug, ranging from eye drops to ampoules for intramuscular injections. While some forms ( nasal and eye drops ) are available for over-the-counter purchase, most medicines containing interferon are prescribed by a doctor and should be used with great caution.

The mechanism of action of interferon. Antiviral and immunomodulatory effects of the drug

In the human body, interferon serves as an “information” molecule. It has a low molecular weight and informs the cells of the immune system about the contact of other cells with foreign formations - viruses. As a result, the immune system is activated. In the absence of interferon, an immune response against viruses does not occur.

Interferon has the following biological effects:

• Antiviral effect. The direct antiviral effect of this substance is to block the synthesis of viral genetic material ( RNA and DNA), as well as the proteins that make up the virus envelope. All this is achieved by activating intracellular enzymes in cells already infected with the virus. This protein can change the membrane of the body's cells so that it becomes impenetrable to viruses.
• Immunomodulatory effect. The drug regulates the interaction of cells involved in the immune response. It represents information about antigens ( viruses) cells specialized in their absorption and excretion from the body ( macrophages, lymphocytes). This accelerates phagocytosis ( destruction of viruses) in the area of ​​the inflammatory focus and removal of the infectious agent. The activity of the immune system when using interferon is indirectly enhanced in relation to bacterial infections.
• Antiproliferative effect ( cell growth inhibition). Interferon has the ability to slow down the growth of the body's own cells. This feature is used in the treatment of tumors. The antitumor effect of interferon appears both directly ( direct inhibition of tumor cell growth) and indirectly ( strengthening the immune system in the search for and fight against mutant cells). Interferon reduces the synthesis of genetic material, proteins, and cell membranes in the tumor focus. This substance also slows down the formation of blood vessels in the tumor.

Types of interferon by method of production. Recombinant ( genetically engineered) and human interferon

Today, the achievements of genetic engineering are widely used in the manufacture of this drug. The gene responsible for the synthesis of interferon is planted in a variety of bacteria ( for example, E. coli), after which this substance synthesized by bacteria is collected and purified. Such analogues are safer and easier to obtain. There are no ethical or medical issues associated with their use, and they are also cheaper to produce.

Pharmacological group of interferon. Classification of drug forms. Which interferon is better?

Exist the following types interferon:

• Alpha interferon. Produced by macrophages. It is characterized by a pronounced antiviral effect and a strong antitumor effect. The immunomodulatory effect of this form is average. It is this type of interferon that is most often used in medications.
• Interferon beta. The effect of this type of interferon is similar to the first type, but it differs in origin. Interferon beta is produced by epithelial cells and fibroblasts. It also differs in the range of indications for use. This form is most often used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis.
• Interferon gamma. This form of the substance is used relatively rarely. It is produced in the human body by lymphocytes upon contact with an antigen. Interferon gamma is characterized by the strongest immunostimulating effect, but its antiviral and antitumor effects are weaker than those of the alpha and beta forms.

Interferon alpha ( leukocyte). Interferon alpha-2b. Pegylated interferon alfa ( pegasis, pegintron)

Interferon alfa-2b has special meaning, as it is used to treat particularly severe viral infections, such as chronic hepatitis. There is a modified version of this form of the drug called pegylated interferon alfa. It is distinguished by the presence of polyethylene glycol in its composition ( PEG), which significantly lengthens the half-life of the drug ( up to 30 hours), which ultimately increases the intervals between the use of the medicine several times. It is produced by adding polyethylene glycol to bacterial colonies during interferon synthesis. This modification is sold in pharmacies under the name Pegasys or Pegintron.

Interferon beta ( betaferon, rebif)

Interferon gamma

Test for interferon status. How to determine increased or decreased levels of interferon in the blood?

Normally, the level of this substance in the blood serum is relatively low, it is 2 – 8 IU/ml or 20 – 120 pg/ml ( 1 picogram = 10 -12 grams). This is explained by the fact that a healthy body does not encounter the virus and has no source for stimulation. During acute and chronic viral infections, the content of interferon in the blood increases, while leukocytes become less susceptible to its action. Finally, with prolonged and severe viral infections, the interferon level drops below normal levels.

This study is carried out in immunological laboratories over several days. To perform it, you need to take a blood test. With a lack of interferon in the body, the body's resistance to viruses is significantly reduced. This phenomenon requires drug correction after identifying the cause.

Interferon release forms. Composition, analogues of the drug

Interferon is available in the following dosage forms:

• ready-made solutions for injections;
• powder ( lyophilisate) for intramuscular or subcutaneous injections;
• eye drops;
• nasal drops;

• candles ( suppositories) rectal and vaginal;
• ointments and gels for cutaneous use;
• aerosols;
• solutions for oral use;
• tablets and some others.

What does ME mean when describing the dosage form and dose of interferon?

The quantitative content of the drug may vary depending on the dosage form. Thus, in drops and ointments, a dose of more than 10,000 IU in 1 gram of the substance is rarely found. At the same time, an ampoule with an injection solution contains more than 200 million IU. It is also worth considering that not in all cases the drug enters the blood in full. Sometimes, when used locally, the content of interferon in the blood can remain at a constant level within the normal range throughout its use.

Nasal and eye drops containing interferon

The most common drug in the form of eye drops is ophthalmoferon. It is a transparent, colorless solution with a yellowish tint. In addition to interferon, it also contains diphenhydramine as the main substance, which reduces itching and swelling of the conjunctiva, and also reduces allergic manifestations. This drug does not enter the blood, therefore it acts exclusively locally and does not cause systemic adverse reactions.

Gripferon is used to treat diseases of the upper respiratory tract. This drug also contains 10,000 IU of interferon per 1 milliliter; it is intended to combat influenza and other viral infections. Grippferon can be in the form of drops or a nasal spray. Both forms are convenient to use.

As excipients influpferon and ophthalmoferon contain:

• sodium chloride;
• disodium edetate;
• sodium acetate;
• macrogol;
• purified water.

Interferon in ampoules for injection ( lyophilisate)

Interferon in injection ampoules is known by many commercial names. Among them are reaferon, wellferon, intron-a, roferon, betaferon and many others. Some drugs ( for example, Pegasis) are packaged in syringe tubes with a volume of about 0.5 ml and are ready to use straight out of the box. This is quite convenient and simplifies the use of the drug. Ampoules are made with different dosages of powder, which allows you to choose the required type of drug according to the doctor’s recommendations.

There are the following dosages of interferon in injection ampoules:

• 500,000 IU;
• 1,000,000 IU;
• 3,000,000 IU;
• 5,000,000 IU;
• 6,000,000 IU;
• 10,000,000 IU.

Candles ( suppositories) containing interferon ( Viferon)

Viferon suppositories may contain the following amount of the main substance:

• 150,000 IU;
• 500,000 IU;
• 1,000,000 IU;
• 3,000,000 IU.

Ointments and gels containing interferon ( viferon, herpferon, infagel)

Also today a drug called herpferon is used in the form of a gel. It is used when herpetic infection, since in addition to interferon it contains active substance acyclovir, directed directly against the herpes virus. Herpferon also contains lidocaine, which reduces itching in the area of ​​herpetic rashes.

Interferon tablets ( entalferon)

Interferon in combinations with other drugs

The following combination interferon preparations are available:

• Genferon. Contains taurine and benzocaine. Used as suppositories for vaginal and rectal administration. Used primarily for the treatment of urogenital diseases.
• Herpferon. Includes additional acyclovir and lidocaine. It is a gel for application to the skin and mucous membranes in case of infection. herpes simplex, herpes zoster.
• Vagiferon. Used as vaginal suppositories. Contains metronidazole and fluconazole. These components provide antimicrobial and antifungal effects, thanks to which they successfully cope with almost any urogenital infection in women.
• Mikoferon. Includes interferon, metronidazole and terbinafine and is presented in the form of a gel for external use. Provides local anti-inflammatory and antifungal effect. Used for mycoses ( fungal infections) torso and feet.
• Allergoferon. Contains interferon and loratadine. Loratadine is a blocker histamine receptors, a powerful antiallergic agent. Allergoferon is a gel that is used in cases of allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis by applying a thin layer to the mucous membrane. Instead of loratadine, Allergoferon beta contains betamethasone, a glucocorticoid hormone that also inhibits the development of allergic reactions.

How quickly does interferon begin to act?

Interferon is a substance with high biological activity. Just one molecule of the drug is enough to completely protect one cell of the body from viruses. In this case, the reproduction of viruses in an infected cell is reduced by half under the influence of only one interferon molecule. In one gram of pure drug ( for preparing injections) contains from 200 to 300 million IU ( depending on the manufacturer and type of interferon).

Is interferon a hormonal drug?

One of the dangerous side effects after using interferon is autoimmune thyroiditis, a disease thyroid gland. It occurs more often than lesions of other glands. The disease is explained by the fact that the activated immune system begins to incorrectly recognize its own thyroid cells and attack them. That is why in case of thyroid diseases it is recommended to take interferon with great caution.

Interferon analogues

The following groups of interferon analogues are distinguished:

• Interferon inducers. This group of drugs is not interferons, but taking them increases the body's production of its own interferon. The effect of their use is as close as possible to the effect of interferon, but has significant disadvantages.
• Antiviral drugs. There are medications that are used to treat certain viral infections. Some are used to treat influenza, others are active against herpes or other viruses. Interferon has the advantage of being active against any viruses ( except HIV) and therefore its action can be considered universal.
• Antitumor ( chemotherapy) facilities. Interferon as a modifier of biological reactions refers to antitumor drugs. Currently, more than 7 groups of chemotherapeutic agents are used in medicine and in particular in oncology ( antibiotics, enzymes, cytostatics and others). Their use largely depends on the structure of the tumor. Interferon can be used only for certain types of tumors; in other cases, the use of its analogues is more effective.

Interferon inducers. Advantages and disadvantages

The disadvantages of this group of drugs include:

• lack of direct antiviral and antitumor effects;
• delayed onset of effect ( it takes time for interferon to be synthesized and interact with the immune system);
• depletion of reserves of this substance;
• the presence of an addictive effect;
• may lead to immune suppression with prolonged use.

Antiviral drugs ( acyclovir, arbidol, sofosbuvir, ribavirin, remantadine)

Using antiviral drugs It must be taken into account that they provide protection against one or, at most, several viruses. Thus, rimantadine will not help in the treatment of viral hepatitis. At the same time, interferon can be used both independently to treat almost any viral infections, and in combination with other antiviral agents. Due to its direct effect on the virus, interferon is considered more effective than many analogues in this group of drugs.

Purified antibodies to interferon gamma ( drug anaferon)

Homeopathic remedies are of questionable effectiveness. Yes, the FDA Association for Quality Control food products and medicines) and WHO ( World Health Organization) do not recommend using such drugs to treat diseases, since the mechanisms of their work are not clear. Traditional medicine compares the effect of anaferon with placebo. Thus, it is recommended to be especially careful when purchasing medicines and not to use homeopathic remedies in treating diseases.

Instructions for use of interferon

The most common way to use the drug is by injection. In order to perform it correctly, it is necessary to use the help of medical personnel.
Given the need for long-term use of the drug, many patients learn to administer it themselves. The correct determination of doses of the active substance plays an important role, especially for injection forms. Suppositories, ointments, drops containing interferon have a precisely determined dosage of the active substance.

Interferon in ampoules for injection, instructions for use. Subcutaneous and intramuscular administration. Subconjunctival injection of the drug

Intramuscular injection can be given into the deltoid muscle ( shoulder area), quadriceps femoris ( outer thigh). More often intramuscular injections performed in the upper outer quadrant of the buttock ( gluteus maximus muscle). The depth of needle insertion is determined individually, usually no more than 3 centimeters ( when inserted into the buttock).

Subcutaneous injection is performed in areas rich in subcutaneous tissue ( subscapular region, lateral abdominal wall, anterior and lateral thigh). The solution is injected when the needle penetrates to a depth of about 15 mm. Subcutaneous tissue has a good blood supply, due to which the drug quickly enters the blood.

Subconjunctival injection is performed directly under the conjunctiva of the eye. When a drug is instilled, it is quickly washed out by the tear fluid. That is why sometimes in case of eye diseases, injections are performed under the conjunctiva of the eye. Such manipulations are carried out only by specially trained personnel.

Is interferon used as part of course therapy?

Injection interferon treatment regimens. Dosage of the drug

There are the following interferon treatment regimens depending on the disease:

• Acute hepatitis B. 1 million IU 2 times a day ( 5 – 6 days), after which the dose is administered once a day for another 5 days. The total treatment dose is 15 to 20 million IU.
• Chronic hepatitis B or D. 1 million IU is administered 2 times a week for 2 months. If necessary, treatment is extended to 3–6 months or courses are repeated at intervals of several months.
• Chronic hepatitis B with signs of liver cirrhosis. For cirrhosis, smaller doses of the drug are prescribed. Prescribe 250 - 500 thousand IU 2 times a week for 1 month.
• Chronic hepatitis C. Used to treat hepatitis C high doses the drug for quite a long time. Adults are administered 3 million IU 3 times a week for 9 months.
• Kidney cancer. Administer 3 million IU daily for 10 days. To prevent tumor development, courses are repeated at intervals of 3 weeks.
• Leukemia ( hairy cell, myeloblastic, lymphoblastic). At various forms leukemia use a dose of 3 to 6 million IU daily or every other day. The duration of the course is from 2 to 6 months.
• Kaposi's sarcoma. 3 million IU is administered daily for 10 days.
• Skin cancer ( basal cell, squamous cell). Injections of 1 million IU are carried out in the affected area daily for 10 days.
• Keratitis ( eye stroma), conjunctivitis. Injections are made subconjunctivally at 60 thousand IU in a volume of 0.5 ml. The duration of the course is selected individually, usually from 15 to 25 days.

Interferon beta treatment regimen for multiple sclerosis

It should be noted that when treating with interferon, the effect may not be immediately noticeable, so many patients may want to stop using it, especially given the possibility of developing side effects. However, despite this, you should not stop treatment without consulting your doctor. Usually, within 1 month of using the drug, it is already possible to judge the effectiveness of this medicine or the futility of its use in a particular patient.

Using interferon in the form of suppositories

Suppositories containing interferon are used according to the following schemes:

• Flu and acute respiratory infections in children. Suppositories containing 500 thousand IU 2 times a day for 5 days.
• Intrauterine infection ( chlamydia, herpes), and viral diseases newborn children. Suppositories 150 thousand IU daily 2 times a day for 5 days.
• Chronic viral hepatitis B, C, D. For adults - 3 million IU, for children - 300 thousand IU 3 times a week for 6 - 12 months.
• Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract. Suppositories 500 thousand IU 2 times a day for 5 – 10 days. Can also be used in the treatment of pregnant women. For genital herpes, suppositories with a dosage of 1 million IU are used.

Using interferon in the form of gel, ointment, drops

Drops containing interferon are used according to standard methods. They can be instilled up to 5 times a day, 1–2 drops into each nasal passage. These drops should not be used with vasoconstrictor drugs, since joint use excessively dries out the mucous membrane. There is also a nasal spray that delivers medication into the nasal passage in a constant amount ( 1 dose corresponds to 1 press).

Inhalation of interferon through a nebulizer. How to prepare interferon solution for inhalation?

To carry out the inhalation procedure, it is necessary to dissolve the contents of one ampoule of the drug in a sufficient amount of physiological solution ( about 10 ml). The temperature of the solution should be about 37 degrees ( match body temperature). The concentration is selected individually depending on the age, weight of the child or adult. Inhalations can be performed no more often than every four hours. When performing inhalation, it is important to breathe only through the nose, without using the oral cavity.

At what temperature should interferon be stored?

How long does interferon last?

Is it possible to use an expired drug?