Interferon gamma (IFNG), also known as type II interferon, is produced by T and NK cells, and in smaller amounts by dendritic cells and macrophages. IFNG binds to a receptor complex and initiates signal transduction via the JAK/STAT pathway; this culminates in the transcription and activation of many genes that control a diverse array of immunological functions. IFNG stimulates the antimicrobial and anti-tumor activity of macrophages, NK cells, and neutrophils by promoting the activation of microbial effector functions such as production of reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide, and complement. In B cells, IFNG stimulates survival and growth in both mouse and human cells, and redirects B cells from proliferation towards differentiation.
