Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3)

Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) is a small type II transmembrane protein and member of the Dispanin family, induced by interferons as a part of the cellular antiviral response[1][2][3]. It is predominantly located in cellular membranes, including endosomal and plasma membranes. IFITM3 restricts the entry of a range of enveloped viruses by altering membrane rigidity and preventing viral fusion with cellular membranes, contributing significantly to innate immune defense[1][2][3]. IFITM3 is regulated by various post-translational modifications, including S-palmitoylation, ubiquitylation, methylation, and phosphorylation, which fine-tune its stability and antiviral activity[2][3]. Beyond its antiviral function, IFITM3 is implicated in cancer, influencing cell cycle progression, proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis through the modulation of major signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR and TGFβ/Smad/MAPK[2][3]. Genetic variants in IFITM3 are associated with increased susceptibility and severity of certain viral infections, especially influenza. While IFITM3 represents a potential therapeutic target in infection and cancer, modulating its levels carries significant safety risks due to its central role in host defense[2][3].

Other names

Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3IFITM3DSPA2b1-8UDispanin subfamily A member 2bInterferon-inducible protein 1-8UIP15

Drugs (theoretical or investigational) would act by modulating IFITM3 expression/function to enhance or suppress its antiviral or tumor-related effects[1][2][3].