Induction and function of IFNβ during viral and bacterial infection.
Since the discovery of the protein "interferon" over 50 years ago, IFNβ, an antiviral cytokine, has been well studied. In particular, the pathways inducing this cytokine during viral infection have been characterized, leading to the discovery of a multitude of pattern recognition receptors. IFNβ is also induced during bacterial infection, following recognition of bacterial ligands by the host viral and DNA sensors. However, the function of IFNβ during bacterial infection is variable and sometimes detrimental to the host. This review discusses the currently identified receptors and pathways engaged in IFNβ induction during infection, with emphasis on the role of IFNβ during bacterial infection.
Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas Children's Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA. nagarajanuma@uams.edu
Uma
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Nagarajan
D000818:Animals; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D016899:Interferon-beta / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000276:immunology*; D011971:Receptors, Immunologic / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D015398:Signal Transduction; D014777:Virus Diseases / Q000276:immunology*
D011971:Receptors, Immunologic; D016899:Interferon-beta