title: Gamma-interferon: physiology and speculation on its role in medicine.
abstract: Gamma-interferon appears to be a pivotal molecule in the immune system. Recombinant DNA technology has permitted the cloning and expression of the gene for gamma-interferon (gamma-IFN), leading to an exponential increase in the level of knowledge both in vitro and in vivo. Laboratory evidence suggests a clinical role for gamma-IFN in collagen vascular disease, chronic granulomatous infectious diseases, hematology, and medical oncology. Phase I trials have identified the toxicities; these toxicities are primarily clinical and include fever, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, and hypotension. Antitumor activity has been noted in the early development of the drug.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000187:drug effects; D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D004357:Drug Synergism; D005544:Forecasting; D006684:HLA-DR Antigens / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007109:Immunity; D007371:Interferon-gamma / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008264:Macrophages / Q000276:immunology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy; D011994:Recombinant Proteins / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D006684:HLA-DR Antigens; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D007371:Interferon-gamma