Question

(i)What are interferons? Explain their role in providing immunity to a person.
(ii) Which category of innate immunity defence barrier can interferons be classified into?

Hint:

Cyclosporin A, used to suppress immune responses in transplant patients, is derived from Trichoderma polysporum.

Answer 1

(i)
Step 1: Interferons are proteins released by virus-infected cells.
Step 2: They inhibit viral replication in surrounding uninfected cells by activating antiviral enzymes, thus preventing the spread of infection. 
Step 3: They also stimulate the immune cells such as natural killer cells and macrophages. 
(ii)
Step 1: Interferons are classified under the physiological barriers of innate immunity. 
Step 2: These barriers include antimicrobial substances produced in the body that inhibit the growth of pathogens.