IFN gamma, Interferon gamma, murine (mouse): Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ, also known as Type II interferon or immune interferon) is a cytokine produced primarily by T-lymphocytes and natural killer cells.
The protein shares no significant homology with IFN-β or the various IFN-α family proteins.
Mature IFN-γ exists as non-covalently linked homodimers. Human IFN-γ is highly species specific and is biologically active only in human and primate cells.
IFN-γ was originally characterized based on its antiviral activities. The protein also exerts anti-proliferative, immuno-regulatory and pro-inflammatory activities and is thus important in host defense mechanisms.
IFN-γ induces the production of cytokines, upregulates the expression of class I and II MHC antigens, Fc receptor and leukocyte adhesion molecules.
It modulates macrophage effector functions, influences isotype switching and potentiates the secretion of immunoglobulins by B cells.
IFN-γ also augments TH1 cell expansion and may be required for TH1 cell differentiation., UnitProt ID: P01580