[Role of IFN-gamma in nonviral infection].

IFN-gamma is induced by receptor-mediated stimulation or in response to early produced cytokines, including interleukin-12 (IL-12), IL-18, and IFN-alpha/beta, or by stimulation through T cell receptors (TCRs) or natural killer (NK) cell receptors. Cellular effects of IFN-gamma are described, including up-regulation of pathogen recognition, antigen processing and presentation, the antiviral state, inhibition of cellular proliferation and effects on apoptosis, activation of microbicidal effector functions, immunomodulation, and leukocyte trafficking. Innate production of IFN-gamma is a critical step in immunological defense against certain pathogen, such as intracellular bacteria, viruses and fungi. This review focuses on recent progress of the role of IFN-gamma in nonviral infections.