Review of human interferons and the potential of their use in the complex therapy of a new coronavirus infection COVID-19
Abstract
Interferons (IFNs) were first discovered over 60 years ago in a classic experiment by Isaacs and Lindenman showing that type I IFNs have antiviral activity. IFNs are widely used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, viral hepatitis B and C, and some forms of cancer. Preliminary clinical data support the efficacy of type I IFN against potential pandemic viruses such as Ebola and SARS. Nevertheless, more effective and specific drugs have found their place in the treatment of such diseases. As the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic is evolving, type I IFN is being re-discussed as one of the main pathogenic drugs, and initial clinical trials have shown promising results in reducing the severity and duration of COVID-19. Although SARS-CoV-2 inhibits the production of IFN-β and prevents a full innate immune response to this virus, it is sensitive to the antiviral activity of externally administered type I IFN. The review presents current data on the classification and mechanisms of action of IFN. Possible options for the optimal use of IFN in the fight against COVID-19 are discussed.
About the Authors
E. V. Granatov
Republican Clinical Neurological Center
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Evgeniy Valerievich Granatov
13, Vatutina St., Kazan 420021
A. R. Abashev
Ministry of Health of the Republic of Tatarstan
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
11/6, Ostrovskiy St., Kazan 420111
F. A. Khabirov
Republican Clinical Neurological Center; Kazan State Medical Academy, Russian Medical Academy of Continuing Professional Education, Ministry of Health of Russia
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
13, Vatutina St., Kazan 420021
36, Butlerov St., Kazan 420012
A. Ya. Dykhanov
“Egida”
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
16/2, Mayakovskiy St., Kaliningrad
T. I. Khaibullin
Republican Clinical Neurological Center; Kazan State Medical Academy, Russian Medical Academy of Continuing Professional Education, Ministry of Health of Russia
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
13, Vatutina St., Kazan 420021
36, Butlerov St., Kazan 420012
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Review
For citations:
Granatov E.V., Abashev A.R., Khabirov F.A., Dykhanov A.Y., Khaibullin T.I. Review of human interferons and the potential of their use in the complex therapy of a new coronavirus infection COVID-19. Neurology, Neuropsychiatry, Psychosomatics. 2022;14(1S):38-44. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.14412/2074-2711-2022-1S-38-44
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