Biologic responses to IFN-α administration in humans

Although interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) was discovered over 40 years ago, it was many years before it was registered as a therapeutic agent. Because of its unique qualities, it has been registered for both antiviral and antitumor indications. In addition to its therapeutic effects in viral diseases and cancer, IFN-alpha interferes with several important physiologic systems, It interacts with the immune system and affects several neuroendocrine and metabolic circuits. The specific mechanisms by which IFN-alpha exerts its therapeutic effects are complex, and it is very difficult to tie the biologic actions of IFN-alpha to specific clinical effects.