How does interferon inhibit tumour growth?

Abstract

Interferon can inhibit tumour growth in experimental animals and in some patients with benign and malignant tumours. There is experimental evidence to suggest that several mechanisms may be involved: a direct effect on the tumour or an indirect effect via the host, or both. Thus, interferon may slow the rate of tumour cell multiplication and this may lead to cell death. Interferon may induce changes in the cell surface rendering tumour cells more sensitive to host defence mechanisms. Interferon may induce reversion in the phenotype of tumour cells. Interferon may stimulate specific and non-specific humoral and cellular host mechanisms. The relative importance of these different effects of interferon may vary depending on the host and the particular tumour.