Direct and indirect effects of IFN-α]2b in malignancy treatment: not only an archer but also an arrow

Interferon-alpha 2b (IFN-alpha 2b) is a highly active cytokine that belongs to the interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) family. IFN-alpha 2b has beneficial antiviral, antitumour, antiparasitic and immunomodulatory activities. Direct and indirect antiproliferative effects of IFN-alpha 2b have been found to occur via multiple pathways, mainly the JAK-STAT pathway, in certain cancers. This article reviews mechanistic studies and clinical trials on IFN-alpha 2b. Potential regulators of the function of IFN-alpha 2b were also reviewed, which could be utilized to relieve the poor response to IFN-alpha 2b. IFN-alpha 2b can function not only by enhancing the systematic immune response but also by directly killing tumour cells. Different parts of JAK-STAT pathway activated by IFN-alpha 2b, such as interferon alpha and beta receptors (IFNARs), Janus kinases (JAKs) and IFN-stimulated gene factor 3 (ISGF3), might serve as potential target for enhancing the pharmacological action of IFN-alpha 2b. Despite some issues that remain to be solved, based on current evidence, IFN-alpha 2b can inhibit disease progression and improve the survival of patients with certain types of malignant tumours. More efforts should be made to address potential adverse effects and complications.

Automated summary

IFN-alpha 2b is a highly active cytokine that has antiviral, antitumour, antiparasitic, and immunomodulatory activities. Its antiproliferative effects are mainly mediated through the JAK-STAT pathway. Regulators of IFN-alpha 2b function may help improve its therapeutic efficacy.