IS INTERFERON-ALPHA A NEUROMODULATOR

Interferons were initially characterized for their ability to 'interfe re' with viral replication, slow cell proliferation, and profoundly al ter immunity. They are a group of hormone-like molecules synthesized a nd secreted by macrophages, monocytes, T lymphocytes, glia, and neuron s. These cytokines have been shown to have several regulatory roles an d diverse biological activities, including control of cellular and hum oral immune responses, inflammation, and tumor regression, in addition , there are many reports indicating that interferon-cr (IFN-alpha) par ticipates in the regulation of various cellular and humoral processes such as the endocrine system modulates behavior, brain activity, tempe rature, glucose sensitive neurons, feeding pattern and opiate activity . Therefore, IFN-alpha( can be considered as a physiological modulator , with only one of its functions being the ability to hinder viral rep lication intracellularly. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.