Recombinant human Interferon alpha 2b protein (Active)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Interferon alpha 2b also known as IFN-alpha 2b or alpha 2b interferon is a type I interferon protein with an average molecular weight of approximately 19000 Daltons. The protein plays a role in the immune response by exhibiting antiviral antiproliferative and immunomodulatory activities. It is expressed mainly in leukocytes such as lymphocytes macrophages and dendritic cells. Researchers can buy interferon online for laboratory uses or create custom alpha 2b interferon for specific research needs.

Biological function summary

Interferon alpha 2b stimulates the immune system to attack pathogens by enhancing antigen presentation and activating natural killer cells and macrophages. It does not function as part of a complex and it acts independently to initiate an antiviral state in cells and increase the host's defense mechanisms. Its role in regulating cell growth and differentiation adds to its importance in maintaining immune homeostasis.

Pathways

Interferon alpha 2b is involved in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway which induces transcription of interferon-stimulated genes that orchestrate an immune response. Additionally it plays a role in the interferon signaling pathway which contributes to innate immunity. Proteins related to it through these pathways include STAT1 and STAT2 which collaborate with IFN alpha-b protein to transmit signals from extracellular stimuli to the nucleus resulting in gene activation.

Interferon alpha 2b is associated with chronic hepatitis C and certain types of cancer including melanoma. It engages with viral proteins in hepatitis C aiming to clear the virus and reduce liver damage. In cancer the antiproliferative properties of interferon alpha 2b help to inhibit tumor cell growth. In these contexts it connects with proteins such as PKR which helps mediate antiviral and anti-tumor responses.