Rat Recombinant IFN-gamma

Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is the only member of the type II class of interferons. It binds to a heterodimeric receptor complex, consisting of IFN-γ receptors 1 and 2, and initiates signal transduction via the JAK/STAT pathway, which culminates in the transcription and activation of many genes that control a diverse array of immunological functions (De Weerd & Nguyen; Krause et al.). IFN-γ is produced by T and NK cells, and in smaller amounts by dendritic cells and macrophages. IFN-γ release assays, which rely on T cells releasing IFN-γ when exposed to specific antigens, are used in diagnosis of diseases including tuberculosis. IFN-γ is controlled by cytokines secreted in response to infection, such as interleukin (IL) 12 and IL-18 (Schroder). IFN-γ stimulates the antimicrobial and antitumor activity of macrophages, NK cells, and neutrophils (Billiau & Matthys) by promoting the activation of microbial effector functions including production of reactive oxygen species, NO intermediates, and complement (Schroder). IFN-γ enhances MHC class I and II expression in dendritic cells and mononuclear phagocytes, as well as the production of IL-12 by dendritic cells (Schroder).