Interferon therapies in small animals. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mueller, Ralf S.; Hartmann, Katrin
• Is Part Of: Veterinary journal. Volume 271(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Cat -- Dog -- IFN-α -- IFN-γ -- IFN-ω; Veterinary medicine -- Periodicals; 636
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2021.105648
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1090-0233

Abstract

Highlights: Canine gingivitis may be treated with human interferon (IFN)-α. Canine IFN-γ is an efficacious therapy for canine atopic dermatitis. Feline IFN-ω is effective against canine parvoviral enteritis and atopic dermatitis. Feline immunodeficiency virus infection may be treated with human IFN-α. Abstract: Interferons (IFNs) are cytokines that play an important role in the immune response of animals and humans. A number of studies reviewed here have evaluated the use of human, canine and feline IFNs as treatments for infectious, inflammatory and neoplastic disease in dogs and cats. Recombinant canine IFN-γ is deemed an efficacious therapy for canine atopic dermatitis. Recombinant feline IFN-ω is effective against canine parvoviral enteritis and has also been recommended for canine atopic dermatitis. Based on limited evidence, recombinant canine IFN-α could be a topical treatment option for dogs with gingivitis and keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Conclusive evidence is lacking for other diseases and large randomised controlled trials are needed before IFNs can be recommended for other indications.