Abstract
The
The human IFN-λ gene family includes 4 distinct genes: IFNL1, IFNL2, IFNL3, and IFNL4. These genes encode the 4 corresponding proteins: IFN-λ1, IFN-2, IFN-3, and IFN-4, respectively. Binding of the IFN-λ proteins to their cognate receptor, IFN-λR1, activates an intracellular signaling cascade that in turn activates a variety of biological functions, including antiviral and antiproliferative activity. The IFN-λ proteins are distinct from type-1 and type-2 IFNs in part because they signal through a unique receptor complex that is distinct from those used by type-1 and type-2 IFNs. Unlike the receptors for type-1 IFNs such as IFN-α and IFN-β that are broadly expressed on most somatic cell types, the receptor for type-3 IFNs has a much more restricted cellular and tissue distribution. IFN-λ receptors (IFN-λR1) are predominantly expressed by epithelial cells, including dermal, gastrointestinal, and respiratory epithelial cells. Consequently, IFN-λ appears to play a key role in mediating host defense at various barrier surfaces such skin, lung, and intestines. Attempts to harness the antiviral activity of IFN-λ are ongoing, and several clinical trials are underway to evaluate the clinical potential of recombinant human IFN-λ as a therapeutic agent.
The forthcoming special issue of JICR will highlight new developments regarding the IFN-λs (type-3 IFNs) that have occurred since the last meeting on IFN-λ was held at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, in October 2018. Article submissions for this special issue can include any of the following subject areas: IFN-λ and IFN-λ receptor biology IFN-λ therapy Genetic association of variants in the IFN-λ gene region with multiple phenotypes Inflammation at barrier tissues Antiviral immunity COVID-19 Role in nonviral infections (eg, bacterial or fungal infections) Role in adaptive immunity IFN-λ interactions with immune cells HCV, HBV, and hepatic fibrosis Cancer
Article submissions for this special issue can include primary research reports and/or review articles.