Interferons

Interferons

1. cells are infected with viruses

   • produce proteins called interferons

2. They help to prevent viruses spreading to uninfected cells

3. They prevent viral replication

   • They inhibit the production of viral proteins

4. They activate cells from specific immune response

   • These kill infected cells

5. They activate other mechanisms of non-specific response

   • They promote inflammation
     • To bring immune system cells to the site of infection