Interferon-α1 is a member of the Type I IFN (1) family best known for their antiviral activity. Most nucleated cells produce one or more Type I IFNs in response to viral infection (2). Secreted Type I IFN then induces viral protective responses in neighboring non-infected cells. Type I IFNs also enhance virus-induced apoptosis (3). Other IFNA11 activities include enhancement of dendritic cell maturation and cytotoxic T cell activity (4). IFNA11 binds to the IFNA1R1 and IFNA1R2 heterodimer (1). Intracellular signaling through the Jak/Stat pathway is best characterized (3). However, the PI3K, ERK, and p38 kinase pathways are also involved (5). The antiviral activities of the IFNs have led to their use in treating viral infections (4). Type I IFNs also appear to have an integral role in several autoimmune diseases (6).
