[Interferons in medicine].
In the last decade, recombinant DNA technology and monoclonal antibodies have allowed the production of great amounts of pure interferons that have been used in clinical trials. Presently, interferons have a defined role in the therapy of infectious and malignant disorders and are widely available both to the specialist and the general practitioner. The aim of the present review is to summarize the main biochemical properties and the molecular mechanisms underlying the broad spectrum of the biological activities of the interferons. Furthermore, on the basis of the results obtained in therapeutical trials, the infectious and neoplastic diseases responsive to therapy with interferons are outlined, along with the most frequent side or toxic effects.
Istituto di Medicina clinica, Università, Bari.
G
G
Lucivero
D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D007372:Interferons / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000145:classification / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy; D014777:Virus Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy
D007372:Interferons
Gli interferoni in medicina.