| Background |
Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) is an inflammatory cytokine that has been implicated in the development of fibrosis in inflamed tissues. The production of IFN-gamma, which is under genetic control, can influence the development of fibrosis in lung allografts. IFN-gamma is also produced by natural killer (NK) cells and most prominently by CD8 cytotoxic T cells, and is vital for the control of microbial pathogens. Interferon gamma is believed to be crucial for host defence against many infections. Genetically determined variability in IFN-gamma and expression might be important for the development of tuberculosis. IFN-gamma activates human macrophage oxidative metabolism and antimicrobial activity. In addition to having antiviral activity, IFN-gamma has important immunoregulatory functions. IFN-gamma plays an important role in the control of neointima proliferation. |
| Reference |
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3. Fen, Z., Dhadly, M. S., Yoshizumi, M., Hilkert, R. J., Quertermous, T., Eddy, R. L., Shows, T. B., Lee, M.-E. Structural organization and chromosomal assignment of the gene encoding the human heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor/diphtheria toxin receptor. Biochemistry 32: 7932-7938, 1993. |
