Interferon to PEG-Interferon: A Review

Authors

  • MA Ahad Assistant Professor, Department of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Rajshahi Medical College, Rajshahi.
  • MA Alim Assistant Professor, Department of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Rajshahi Medical College, Rajshahi
  • ARM Saifuddin Ekram Professor, Department of Medicine, Rajshahi Medical College, Rajshahi.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3329/taj.v17i2.3460

Keywords:

Interferon, PEG-Interferon

Abstract

The interferons (IFNs) are group of naturally occurring cytokines that are secreted by cells of mammalian immune system when they are stimulated by viral, bacterial and other antigens. There are number of alpha IFNs available for treatment purposes. The two most commonly used α-2a and α-2b are made by recombinant technology. When interferon Alpha-2a is combined with polyethylene glycol (PEG), it is known as pegylated interferon or PEG interferon. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a safe, inert and nontoxic molecule. Therapeutic benefits of altering proteins with PEG include an improvement in half-life due to reduced renal and cellular clearance, enhanced protection from proteolysis and a reduction in toxicity.  

doi: 10.3329/taj.v17i2.3460  

TAJ 2004; 17(2): 113-116

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.
Abstract
57
PDF
211

Downloads

How to Cite

Ahad, M., Alim, M., & Ekram, A. S. (2009). Interferon to PEG-Interferon: A Review. TAJ: Journal of Teachers Association, 17(2), 113–116. https://doi.org/10.3329/taj.v17i2.3460

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 2 (2004)

Section

Review Articles