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INTERFERON ALPHA
(IFN-α) LEVEL

OVERVIEW EXPLANATION

IFN-α is an anti-inflammatory protein released by cells in response to a viral infection. The protein then goes on to inhibit the replication of viral-infected cells, thus protecting the body from further infection. The IFN-α assay can provide information as to the body’s current level of anti-viral and anti-tumour defence measures, with elevated levels suggesting the presence of a viral infection and/or virally-induced cancerous cells. Low IFN-α levels, on the other hand, may reflect insufficient immune activity.

DETAILED EXPLANATION

IFN-α is an anti-inflammatory Cytokine produced by leukocytes, usually in response to the presence of a viral infection. This assay is able to evaluate the state of activity of the leukocytes that are associated with the anti-viral and anti-tumour defence.

High levels are indicative of a viral infection being present and there is the likelihood that there are cells which have been transformed by a virus. There is evidence that IFN-α activates the expression of the anti-tumour gene p-53. Low levels suggest that there is an insufficient quantity of active leukocytes, which is probably due to some immunological problems.

APPLICATION

This assay will provide extremely valuable and accurate information relating to the following pathological condition :-

- Viral infections.
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