Interferon alpha-17 (IFNA17)

Interferon alpha-17 is a secreted **type I interferon** cytokine encoded by the IFNA17 gene on chromosome 9. It is produced primarily by macrophages and exerts **potent antiviral, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory effects**. Key biological functions include the activation of natural killer cells, stimulation of B-cell differentiation and proliferation, and initiation of cellular antiviral defenses, primarily by stimulating the production of antiviral enzymes like protein kinase and oligoadenylate synthetase[1][2][3][7][9]. IFNA17 is implicated in several immune-mediated diseases and infections, and recombinant interferon alpha drugs—with similar mechanism of action—are used in the treatment of chronic viral infections and certain cancers; however, the clinical use of IFNA17-specific formulations is not clearly documented. IFNA17 genetic variants may serve as biomarkers for cancer risk[6]. Safety concerns are similar to other interferons, with risks including flu-like symptoms, myelosuppression, neuropsychiatric effects, and autoimmunity[1][9].

Other names

Interferon alpha-17IFNA17IFN-alpha-17LeIF ILEIF2C1IFN-alphaIInterferon alpha-88Interferon alpha-I'Interferon alpha-TIFNAINFAinterferon alpha-WAleIF I

Activation of type I interferon receptor signaling, leading to induction of antiviral and antiproliferative genes - Stimulation of protein kinase and oligoadenylate synthetase pathways, interfering with viral replication and cell proliferation