IFN a 1b Human
Description
Production and Stability
Biological activity is quantified via viral resistance assays (1 × 10⁸ IU/mg) .
Mechanism of Action
IFN-α1b binds to the IFN-α/β receptor (IFNAR1/IFNAR2), activating JAK-STAT signaling to induce:
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Antiviral proteins: Oligoadenylate synthetase and protein kinase R .
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Immunomodulation: Upregulation of MHC class I, PD-L1, and cytokines like CXCL10 .
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Antiproliferative effects: Cell cycle arrest in cancer cells .
Its unique receptor-binding profile may explain reduced systemic toxicity compared to other IFN-α subtypes .
Viral Infections
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Lower respiratory tract infections: A retrospective study of 540 infants showed 37.5% fewer wheezing episodes in the IFN-α1b group vs. controls (OR 1.70, p = 0.028) .
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Chronic hepatitis B: Reduces viral load and liver inflammation .
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Herpes zoster: Inhibits varicella-zoster virus replication via foraminal injection .
Neuropathic Pain
A 2025 multicenter trial (NCT ChiCTR240008996) is evaluating IFN-α1b for postherpetic neuralgia (PHN):
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Intervention: 30 μg IFN-α1b + lidocaine injected into intervertebral foramina .
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Primary outcomes: Pain reduction (VAS score) and duration of relief .
Immunomodulation in Autoimmunity
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Type 1 diabetes (T1D): IFN-α1b upregulates PD-L1 and HLA-E in pancreatic β-cells, potentially mitigating autoimmune destruction .
Comparative Analysis of IFN-α Subtypes
| Feature | IFN-α1b | Other IFN-α Subtypes |
|---|---|---|
| IFNAR2 affinity | 100-fold lower | High |
| Gene source | IFNA1/IFNA13 | Other IFNA genes |
| Clinical use | PHN, viral infections | Hepatitis C, multiple sclerosis |
Future Directions
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Interferons were first discovered in 1957 by Isaacs and Lindenmann as antiviral factors . IFN-α1b is encoded by the IFNA1 gene in humans and is expressed in peripheral blood leukocytes and lymphoblastoid cells . The recombinant form of IFN-α1b is produced in E. coli and consists of a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 166 amino acids, with a molecular mass of approximately 19,392 Daltons .
IFN-α1b induces non-specific resistance against a broad range of viral infections . It also affects cell proliferation and modulates immune responses, making it a valuable therapeutic agent . The type I interferons, including IFN-α1b, are known for their ability to suppress the proliferation of cancer cells and modulate both innate and adaptive immune responses .
Recombinant human IFN-α1b has been used in various clinical settings. It is particularly noted for its antiviral properties and has been employed in the treatment of chronic viral infections . Additionally, IFN-α1b has shown promise in cancer therapy, particularly in improving survival rates in advanced melanoma .
Recent research has focused on enhancing the biological activity and extending the half-life of IFN-α1b to improve its clinical efficacy . For instance, novel long-acting recombinant forms of IFN-α2b have been developed, which show increased stability and prolonged activity in vivo . These advancements highlight the ongoing efforts to optimize interferon therapies for better patient outcomes.
