Type III Interferons in Antiviral Defenses at Barrier Surfaces. Issue 10 (October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wells, Alexandra I.; Coyne, Carolyn B.
• Is Part Of: Trends in immunology. Volume 39:Issue 10(2018)
• Page Start: 848
• Page End: 858
• Publication Date: 2018-10
• Subjects: barrier surfaces -- placenta -- interferon -- innate immunity; Immunology -- Periodicals; 571.96
• DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2018.08.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-4906

Abstract

Abstract : Barrier surfaces such as the epithelium lining the respiratory and gastrointestinal (GI) tracts, the endothelium comprising the blood–brain barrier (BBB), and placental trophoblasts provide key physical and immunological protection against viruses. These barriers utilize nonredundant mechanisms to suppress viral infections including the production of interferons (IFNs), which induce a strong antiviral state following receptor binding. However, whereas type I IFNs control infection systemically, type III IFNs (IFN-λs) control infection locally at barrier surfaces and are often preferentially induced by these cells. In this review we focus on the role of IFN-λ at barrier surfaces, focusing on the respiratory and GI tracts, the BBB, and the placenta, and on how these IFNs act to suppress viral infections. Highlights: The epithelium comprising the respiratory and GI tracts induces IFN-λs to enhance antiviral defenses. IFN-λ signaling enhances junctional barrier function at the BBB to protect against neurotropic viral infections. Placental trophoblasts constitutively releases type III IFNs as a mechanism to protect the placenta from viral infections. Recombinant IFN-λ treatment is protective against vertical transmission of Zika virus in vivo.