Interferon-lambda: key polymorphisms and their role in the fight against infections – an overview of the subject field

Abstract

One of the key mechanisms of the innate antiviral response is the production of interferons. Interferon-lambda has shares features with other classes of interferons, but has unique properties associated with providing predominantly local immunity of the mucous membranes, which is due to both limited expression of the interferon-lambda receptor localized to epithelial cells and a small pool of immune cells, and anti-inflammatory properties with a preserved antiviral response.

The aim of the scoping review was to summarize the available literature data on the effect of interferon-lambda and its genetic polymorphisms on the susceptibility, course, and prognosis of infectious diseases. The selection of literature sources was performed in the Google Scholar search engine according to the recommendations of the systematic review methodology presented in the PRISMA 2020 protocol.

An analysis of the literature showed that interferon-lambda has pronounced antiviral activity against respiratory viruses and is associated with limiting the progression of viral infections. Compared to type I interferons, interferon – lambda is characterized by less proinflammatory activity, but has a more specific effect, acting mainly on the barrier epithelium of the mucous membranes. Interferon-lambda promotes rapid recovery from viral infections due to its combination of antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its anti-inflammatory effect may indirectly influence the spread of bacterial superinfections. The above highlights the need for further research into the effects of interferon-lambda on the course and outcome of infectious diseases.