Interferons were discovered by

Options

A. Zinder and Lederberg
B. Issac and Lindermann
C. Temin
D. Safferman and Morris

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Interferons**: Interferons are proteins that are secreted by virus-infected host cells. Their primary function is to protect neighboring non-infected cells from viral infection.

2. **Historical Context**: The discovery of interferons is attributed to two scientists, Isak and Lindemann. They were the first to report on these proteins and their role in the immune response.

3. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option A: Zinder and Lederberg** - This option is incorrect. Zinder and Lederberg are known for their discovery of transduction, a method of bacterial recombination.
- **Option B: Isak and Lindemann** - This option is correct as they discovered interferons.
- **Option C: Taman** - Taman is known for his work on reverse transcriptase, not interferons.
- **Option D: Safferman and Morris** - This option is also incorrect; they are known for their research on viruses affecting cyanobacteria.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the evaluation of the options, the correct answer to the question "Interferons were discovered by" is **Isak and Lindemann**.