How does the interferon response provide anti-viral protection?

• A. Interferons bind to the virus neutralizing it.
• B. Interferons stimulate neighboring cells to produce anti-viral proteins.
• C. Interferons prevent the virus from entering the cell.
• D. Interferons prevent the virus from leaving the infected cell and infecting neighboring cells.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of interferons: Interferons are proteins produced by host cells in response to viral infections. They play a crucial role in the immune response by signaling neighboring cells to heighten their anti-viral defenses.
2. Identify the mechanism of action: Interferons do not directly neutralize viruses or prevent them from entering or leaving cells. Instead, they bind to receptors on neighboring cells, triggering a signaling cascade that leads to the production of anti-viral proteins.
3. Explore the signaling pathway: When interferons bind to receptors on neighboring cells, they activate the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. This pathway results in the transcription of genes that encode anti-viral proteins, enhancing the cell's ability to inhibit viral replication.
4. Consider the effects on neighboring cells: The production of anti-viral proteins in neighboring cells helps to create an environment that is hostile to viral replication, thereby limiting the spread of the virus.
5. Summarize the protective role: The primary anti-viral protection provided by interferons is through the stimulation of neighboring cells to produce anti-viral proteins, which helps to control and reduce viral spread.