Interferons ____________.
a. Do not protect the cell that secretes them
b. Stimulate the activity of macrophages
c. Cause muscle aches, chills, and fever
d. All of the above

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand what interferons are. Interferons are proteins produced by host cells in response to viral infections and other stimuli. They play a role in the immune response by interfering with viral replication within host cells.
2. Step 2: Analyze option (a): 'do not protect the cell that secretes them.' Interferons are secreted by infected cells and act on neighboring cells to induce antiviral states, but they do not protect the cell that originally secretes them from the virus.
3. Step 3: Analyze option (b): 'stimulate the activity of macrophages.' Interferons can activate immune cells such as macrophages, enhancing their ability to phagocytose pathogens and produce inflammatory cytokines.
4. Step 4: Analyze option (c): 'cause muscle aches, chills, and fever.' Interferons can induce systemic symptoms such as muscle aches, chills, and fever as part of the immune response, often referred to as 'flu-like symptoms.'
5. Step 5: Combine the information from steps 2, 3, and 4 to evaluate option (d): 'all of the above.' Since all the previous statements about interferons are correct, option (d) is the comprehensive choice.

Key Concepts

Function of Interferons

Interferons are signaling proteins released by host cells in response to viral infections. They help protect neighboring cells by inducing antiviral defenses, but they do not protect the cell that secretes them directly.

Role of Interferons in Immune Activation

Interferons stimulate immune cells such as macrophages, enhancing their ability to engulf and destroy pathogens. This activation is crucial for mounting an effective innate immune response.

Side Effects of Interferon Production

The release of interferons can cause systemic symptoms like muscle aches, chills, and fever. These effects are part of the body's inflammatory response to infection and help signal the presence of pathogens.