[General considerations on the interferon system].

In this review some interesting aspects of interferon and its present perspectives for a practical utilization in human viral infections and in oncological therapy are described. After an evaluation of general characteristics of IF, some particular problems are considered about this system as that of IF and poly I:C interaction with cellular membranes, genetic control of IF system, IF and its inducers influence on immune reactivity and human tumours cells IF inducing ability and sensitivity. Finally are described some data obtained in various Institutes with IF on human virosis and those obtained on human and animal oncology with IF and interferon inducers.