Interferon (IFN) was discovered by Issacs and Lindemann. Their action

Options

A. is on host protein
B. lacks specificity
C. is only on specific virus
D. is only on cancer cells

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Interferons**: Interferons (IFNs) are a group of signaling proteins that were discovered by scientists Isaacs and Lindemann in 1957. They are produced by host cells in response to viral infections.

2. **Nature of Interferons**: Interferons are soluble glycoproteins, which means they are proteins that have sugar molecules attached to them. They play a crucial role in the immune response against viruses.

3. **Mechanism of Action**: The primary action of interferons is antiviral. They exhibit their antiviral properties through several mechanisms:
- Inhibition of protein synthesis in infected cells.
- Inactivation of viral RNA.
- Enhancement of phagocytic and cytotoxic activities of immune cells.

4. **Lack of Specificity**: Interferons do not target a specific virus; instead, they can act against a variety of viruses. This means they lack specificity and can respond to multiple viral infections.

5. **Evaluating the Options**:
- The question presents several statements regarding the action of interferons:
- "On host protein" - This is incorrect as interferons are released by host cells, not acting on host proteins.
- "Lack specificity" - This is correct as they can act against multiple viruses without being specific to one.
- "Only on specific virus" - This is incorrect; they act on various viruses.
- "Only on cancer cells" - This is also incorrect; they can act on any viral infection, not just cancer.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the evaluation, the correct answer is that interferons "lack specificity."

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