The Peculiar Characteristics of Fish Type I Interferons

摘要: Antiviral type I interferons (IFNs) have been discovered in fish. Genomic studies revealed their considerable number many species; some genes encode secreted and non-secreted isoforms. Based on cysteine motifs, fish IFNs fall two subgroups, which use different receptors. Mammalian IFN are intronless while III introns; fish, all introns, but structurally, both subgroups belong to I. Type likely appeared early vertebrates as intron containing genes, evolved parallel tetrapods fishes. The diversity of repertoires mammals is a convergent feature, selected response the variety viral strategies. Several alternative nomenclatures established for taxonomic groups, calling unified system. specific functions each gene remains poorly understood, well interactions antiviral responses. However, distinct induction pathways, kinetics response, tissue specificity indicate that highly specialized, especially groups where they numerous such salmonids or cyprinids. Unravelling functional integration constitutes next challenge understand how these cytokines orchestrate innate immunity vertebrates.