Interferon-Stimulated Gene Expression

Interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) expression is the process by which a set of genes are transcriptionally activated in response to interferon (IFN) signaling. ISGs play a central role in the innate immune response, particularly against viral infections, but also contribute to defense against bacteria and parasites. The pathway involves IFN binding to receptors, activation of JAK-STAT signaling, and subsequent transcription of hundreds of ISGs. ISG expression is tightly regulated by chromatin remodeling, histone modifications, and feedback loops. Type I, II, and III interferons induce distinct but overlapping sets of ISGs, contributing to diverse biological outcomes.

Interferon binding to receptors activates JAK-STAT signaling, leading to transcription of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs).