Interferon Preparations Research Articles

Unveiling the role of HP1α-HDAC1-STAT1 axis as a therapeutic target for HP1α-positive intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

BackgroundIntrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICCA) is a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors characterized by high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Heterochromatin Protein 1α (HP1α) is one of the most important nonhistone chromosomal proteins involved in transcriptional silencing via heterochromatin formation and structural maintenance. The effect of HP1α on the progression of ICCA remained unclear.MethodsThe effect on the proliferation of ICCA was detected by experiments in two cell lines and two ICCA mouse models. The interaction between HP1α and Histone Deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) was determined using Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS) and the binding mechanism was studied using immunoprecipitation assays (co-IP). The target gene was screened out by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). The occupation of DNA binding proteins and histone modifications were predicted by bioinformatic methods and evaluated by Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation (CUT & Tag) and Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP).ResultsHP1α was upregulated in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICCA) tissues and regulated the proliferation of ICCA cells by inhibiting the interferon pathway in a Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 1 (STAT1)-dependent manner. Mechanistically, STAT1 is transcriptionally regulated by the HP1α-HDAC1 complex directly and epigenetically via promoter binding and changes in different histone modifications, as validated by high-throughput sequencing. Broad-spectrum HDAC inhibitor (HDACi) activates the interferon pathway and inhibits the proliferation of ICCA cells by downregulating HP1α and targeting the heterodimer. Broad-spectrum HDACi plus interferon preparation regimen was found to improve the antiproliferative effects and delay ICCA development in vivo and in vitro, which took advantage of basal activation as well as direct activation of the interferon pathway. HP1α participates in mediating the cellular resistance to both agents.ConclusionsHP1α-HDAC1 complex influences interferon pathway activation by directly and epigenetically regulating STAT1 in transcriptional level. The broad-spectrum HDACi plus interferon preparation regimen inhibits ICCA development, providing feasible strategies for ICCA treatment. Targeting the HP1α-HDAC1-STAT1 axis is a possible strategy for treating ICCA, especially HP1α-positive cases.

Iraqi experts consensus on the management of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis in adults

Objective In Iraq, a lack of evidence-based management protocols for diagnosing, treating, and managing multiple sclerosis (MS) poses risks of suboptimal outcomes and clinical practice variability and potential harm to the patients. This study aimed to develop consensus recommendations regarding the diagnosis and management of MS in Iraq, specifically focusing on treatment-naïve patients, suboptimal responders, and women of childbearing age during preconception, pregnancy planning, and lactation. Methods A survey was conducted to collect feedback from a panel of ten key opinion leaders (KOLs), who evaluated and discussed the statements to determine agreement levels. The mini-Delphi method was employed to establish a consensus on the management recommendations, and a meeting was held to analyze the responses and ensure that the recommendations were based on current evidence and followed a consensus-driven approach. Results The Revised McDonald Criteria is recommended for MS diagnosis, which includes evidence of dissemination of disease characteristics in space and time. Disease activity and progression can be monitored using relapses, MRI activity, and short-term disability progression. Experts suggest initiating treatment at diagnosis using higher efficacy medications, such as cladribine, ocrelizumab, natalizumab, or rituximab, for patients with high disease activity after careful risk stratification. Injectable interferon preparations have a tolerable risk profile but have drawbacks, such as the route and frequency of administration. Overall, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have shown efficacy in reducing relapse rates and short-term disability. Conclusion This article presents expert panel recommendations for managing MS in Iraq, taking into account international guidelines, medication updates, and local resources. However, practical questions remain regarding the real-world use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). Personalizing treatment based on disease severity, prognosis, and individual risk factors while adhering to guidelines is crucial. A collaborative approach between healthcare providers and patients, considering individual preferences, is vital for achieving treatment goals.

Study of the fungicidal effect of the chimeric form of interferon alpha-2b in relation to fungi-pathogens of plants and animals

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the fungicidal effect of a chimeric form of recombinant interferon alpha-2b, fused with human apolipoprotein A-I, obtained by biosynthesis in the yeast Pichia рastoris, against significant fungal pathogens – pathogens of human and plant diseases.Material and methods. The fungicidal activity of the chimeric cytokine was assessed using the agar block method against fungal pathogens: Alternaria alternata, Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus spp. and Penicillum spp. The fungicidal effect was assessed visually and by microscopy of a section of the fungal body stained with methylene blue, the germination of fungal spores – by subculture, the cytotoxicity of interferon preparations – on Vero cell culture.Results and discussion. The studied recombinant interferons suppress the growth and reproduction of pathogenic fungi. Chimeric IFN has the greatest effect against pathogenic fungi A. alternate, Penicillum at a concentration of 15 ng/ml; inhibition of sporulation of fungi F. oxysporum and Aspergillus up to 87 % is achieved at a concentration of 150 ng/ml. The cytotoxicity of the new chimeric cytokine is 5,8 μg/ml, which is significantly more than toxic concentrations for fungi.Conclusions. The chimeric form of interferon alpha-2b can be used as an immunotherapeutic agent with fungicidal activity.

Pathogenesis and management of multiple sclerosis revisited

BackgroundMultiple sclerosis is an autoimmune chronic inflammatory disease characterized by selective destruction of myelin in the CNS neurons (including optic nerve). It was first described in the 19th century and remained elusive owing to the disease's unique relapsing and remitting course. The widespread and debilitating prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) has prompted the development of various treatment modalities for its effective management. Methods and objectivesA literature review was conducted using the electronic databases PubMed and Google Scholar. The main objective of the review was to compile the advances in pathogenesis, classifications, and evolving treatment modalities for MS. ResultsThe understanding of the pathogenesis of MS and the potential drug targets for its precise treatment has evolved significantly over the past decade. The experimental developments are also motivating and present a big change coming up in the next 5 years. Numerous disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have revolutionized the management of MS: interferon (IFN) preparations, monoclonal antibodies—natalizumab and ocrelizumab, immunomodulatory agents—glatiramer acetate, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) modulators (Siponimod) and teriflunomide. The traditional parenteral drugs are now available as oral formulations improving patient acceptability. Repurposing various agents used for related diseases may reinforce the drug reserve to manage MS and are under trials. Although at a nascent phase, strategies to enhance re-myelination by stimulating oligodendrocytes are fascinating and hold promise for better outcomes in patients with MS. ConclusionsThe recent past has seen staggering inclusions to the management of multiple sclerosis catalyzing a significant turnabout in our approach to diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Since the advent of DMTs various other oral and injectable agents have been approved. The advances in MS therapeutics and diagnostics have laid the ground for further research and development to enhance the quality of life of afflicted patients.

The use of interferons in the treatment of viral infections

The article presents an analysis of current information on approaches, pathogenetic features and the use of interferons in the treatment of viral infections. the types and biological characteristics of interferons, which are an integral part of the antiviral defense of the body, are described. The validity of the use of interferon preparations for the treatment and prevention of respiratory viral infections has been analyzed, taking into account information about the mechanisms of their action.

Інтерферонотерапія гострих респіраторних вірусних інфекцій у дітей

У статті розглядаються питання лікування гострих респіраторних вірусних інфекцій у дітей, зокрема застосування інтерферонів. Підкреслено, що серед препаратів рекомбінантних інтерферонів найдоцільніше застосовувати інтерферон α-2b. Приділено увагу застосуванню та ефективності вітчизняного препарату інтерферону α-2b для інтраназального введення Назоферону.

Оцінка ефективності препаратів інтерферону в лікуванні гострих респіраторних вірусних інфекцій у дітей, які часто хворіють

У статті наведені основні підходи до лікування і профілактики гострих респіраторних вірусних інфекцій у дітей, які часто хворіють. Проведений аналіз власних досліджень щодо ефективності рекомбінантного інтерферону альфа (препарат Назоферон) у лікуванні гострих респіраторних вірусних інфекцій у таких дітей. Доведена доцільність включення цього препарату в терапевтичний комплекс.

USE OF PREPARATION OF RECOMBINANT INTERFERONS FOR CORRECTION OF OVULATORY FUNCTION IN OVARIES OF DAIRY COWS

The article presents the material on studying the efficacy of the preparation of recombinant interferons containing granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) for the prevention of the post-estral uterine bleeding in dairy cows, accompanied by a retardation in ovulation of the dominant follicle. It has been found that a single administration of the drug containing GM-CSF in its composition to cows at a dose of 5.0 ml during insemination, contributes to the ovulatory functional recovery in 86.7% of animals, and reduces the period from calving to fertilization by 27.7 – 37.8 days. The introduction of the recombinant interferon preparation to cows provides activation of the cellular link in the immune defense, normalization of the blood hormonal-cytokine profile, recovery of the ovulatory function in the genital gonads. This is manifested by an increase in the serum lysozyme activity – by 29.5%, leukocyte phagocytic activity – by 12.4%, phagocytic index – by 38.8%, phagocytic number – by 58.8%, progesterone – by 59.9%, estradiol – by 60.0%, testosterone – by 59.3%, DHEA-S – by 56.8%, IL-4 – by 42.5%, IL-10 – by 53.4%, with a decrease in the content of IL-2 – by 40.4% and IL-1β – by 37.2%.

Features of the diagnosis and treatment of patients with AQP-4-positive neuromyelitis optica and MOG antibody disease

Background. As the amount of knowledge about multiple sclerosis increases, there is an interest in other forms of demyelinating diseases, among which neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and MOG (myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein) antibody disease can be distinguished.Objective: to improve the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment, to assess the long-term outcome in patients with AQP-4-positive neuromyelitis optica and MOG antibody disease.Materials and methods. The study included 14 patients: children, adolescents, adults, and elderly (9 - female, 5 -male). The duration of catamnesis ranged from 1 year to 6 years.Results and discussion. Antibodies to AQP-4 were found in 5 patients, antibodies to MOG were found in 9 patients. 89 % of patients with MOG antibody disease had the number of antibodies to MOG less than 50 pg/ml, determined by the Sandwich-type ELISA method; therefore, multiple sclerosis cannot be excluded (considering the oligoclonal IgG type 2 in three patients). To clarify the diagnosis, antibodies to MOG must be tested by more specific method of live cell-based assay in these patients.Based on this group of patients, it can be assumed that the younger the patient was, the earlier the diagnosis was made and treatment started, the better was prognosis. The prognosis was more favorable in patients with AQP-4-positive neuromyelitis in whom the disease debuted with optic neuritis. Patients with MOG antibody disease had a more favorable prognosis if the disease debuted with a supratentorial brain lesion; less favorable - when oligoclonal IgG type 2 was detected. Gender had no influence on the outcome of the disease.Conclusion. Differential diagnosis of this diseases based on clinical data is practically impossible. The study was carried out in a small group, so it is difficult to translate the results to the population of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. During treatment, almost all patients show positive dynamics when using glucocorticosteroids, human immunoglobulin preparations. Plasmapheresis was ineffective in patients with AQP-4-positive neuromyelitis optica, in some patients with MOG antibody disease the positive effect was observed. Cytostatic therapy was effective in patients with AQP-4-positive neuromyelitis optica. B cell depletion therapy with rituximab was effective in patients with MOG antibody disease. Interferon preparations did not give a positive effect.

Опыт применения назальных форм интерферона в лечении и профилактике острых респираторных инфекций

По данным ВОЗ, каждый третий житель планеты ежегодно обращается за медицинской помощью по поводу острой респираторной инфекции. Результаты многих исследований показывают, что коррекция иммунных процессов в очаге воспаления дает больший эффект, чем влияние на иммунокомпетентные клетки кровеносного русла (при системном использовании препаратов). Поэтому логичным подходом к терапии респираторных вирусных инфекций, поражающих респираторный эпителий, является интраназальное применение препаратов интерферонов, которые обеспечивают противовирусное, иммуномодулирующее и противобактериальное действие в месте развития инфекционного процесса. В доступной литературе имеется достаточное количество клинических исследований, посвященных изучению эффективности назальных и аэрозольных форм интерферона альфа при острых респираторных вирусных инфекциях (ОРВИ). В них показано, что рекомбинантный интерферон альфа является эффективным препаратом для лечения и профилактики ОРВИ. Его применение сокращает сроки клинического выздоровления больных, уменьшает степень выраженности клинических симптомов заболевания, позволяет избежать манифестации заболевания. Также препараты интерферонов могут применяться как средство предотвращения ОРВИ и гриппа.

Інтерферони: природа, механізми дії та клінічне застосування препаратів інтерферону

Лекція присвячена питанням використання інтерферонів у клінічній практиці. Приділено увагу історії відкриття інтерферонів, механізмам їх дії, ефективності різних препаратів інтерферонів.

Актуалізація застосування інтерферону при гострому простому бронхіті в дітей

Актуальність. Основними етіологічними факторами гострого простого бронхіту у дітей є респіраторнотропні віруси, у зв’язку з чим препарати інтерферону можуть бути використані при лікуванні відповідних респіраторних захворювань. Мета: вивчення клініко-імунологічної ефективності рекомбінантного інтерферону альфа-2b при лікуванні гострого простого бронхіту в дітей. Матеріали та методи. Під наглядом перебувало 49 дітей віком від двох до шести років, хворих на гострий простий бронхіт, 23 дитини отримували препарат Лаферобіон®, що містить рекомбінантний інтерферон ­альфа-2b. При проведенні роботи використовувалися клінічні й лабораторні методи дослідження. Тяжкість стану хворого оцінювалася за Bronchitis severity score (шкалою BSS). Лабораторне дослідження включало загальний аналіз крові, сечі, застосовувались імуноферментні методи. Етіологічний діагноз встановлювався на підставі вірусологічних методів дослідження. При визначенні концентрації інтерферону гамма використовувався набір «Гамма-інтерферон-ІФА-БЕСТ А-8752» фірми «Вектор Бест»; лактоферину — набір Нuman Lactoferrin NK 329 Edition 06-16 виробництва компанії Hycult Biotech (USA), нейтрофільних a-дефензинів 1–3 — реактиви Нuman HNP NK317 Edition 08-16 виробництва компанії Hycult Biotech (USA). Результати. У всіх дітей, хворих на гострий простий бронхіт, захворювання почалося гостро й проявлялося катаральним і загальнозапальним синдромами. Згідно з оцінкою ознак гострого простого бронхіту за шкалою BSS на початку захворювання і в періоді реконвалесценції, застосування в терапії рекомбінантного інтерферону альфа-2b сприяє більш швидкому зменшенню всіх клінічних проявів захворювання й збільшенню вмісту лактоферину в ротоглотковій рідині до періоду реконвалесценції. Висновки. Ректальне призначення рекомбінантного інтерферону альфа-2b Лаферобіон® є етіопатогенетичним методом лікування гострого простого бронхіту в дітей.

Hormone therapy affecting interferon defense in children with infectious mononucleosis

23 children diagnosed with acute infectious mononucleosis were hospitalized and examined after a short prednisolone treatment course. Related interferon status during infection was compared with that in 38 patients with acute infectious mononucleosis receiving no hormone therapy. Interferon status was investigated by Ershov method, allowing to estimate amount of interferon in the blood serum samples or patient blood cell culture by assessing interferon biological activity. Along with measuring IFNα or IFNγ biological activity, their level was quantified by using enzyme immunoassay. Immunological examination conducted on the next day after the end of hormone therapy revealed sharply decreased potential of patient blood cells to produce both IFNα and IFNγ. The multiplicity of IFNα and IFNγ titer reduction in various patients varied by 4–5 and 3–4-fold, respectively. The concentration of IFNα, determined by ELISA, decreased by 4–6-fold, whereas for IFNγ — by 1.5–2-fold. A follow-up examination 1 month after discharge from the clinic showed that mean IFNα titer in children aged 3–6 years and treated with prednisolone was significantly reduced compared to the baseline, whereas most patients receiving no hormone therapy had normal IFNα production. The change in the level of IFNα 1 month after hormone therapy in 7–14-year age group was similar. IFNγ production quickly recovered, and 1 month after discharge from the clinic, its concentration in culture supernatants from patients reached 10–15 ng/ml, exceeding normal values more than twice. The biological activity of IFNγ in these culture supernatants was significantly higher than those immediately after hormone therapy, whereas in 3–6-year-old group of patients it was also higher than baseline level. These results can serve as a laboratory justification for including recombinant IFNα-2b drugs in the therapy of such patients, presumably immediately after the end of hormone course. Overall, laboratory justified administration of interferon preparations seems to be necessary to determine optimal timepoint for applying such drugs to increase effectiveness for achieving a durable patient recovery.

Miyeloproliferatif Hastalıkların Tanısının Moleküler Genetik Yönü: Polisitemi Vera Örneği

Molecular genetic testing is a reliable method for the definitive diagnosis of polycythemia vera (PV). The use of interferon preparations in addition to hydroxyurea and antiplatelet agents could be associated with better therapeutic outcomes. In this report, we present the clinical case of a young patient with asymptomatic PV to demonstrate the effectiveness of molecular genetic analysis in PV diagnosis.

ОПТИМИЗАЦИЯ ПРОТИВОВИРУСНОЙ ТЕРАПИИ НОВОЙ КОРОНАВИРУСНОЙ ИНФЕКЦИИ COVID-19 У ДЕТЕЙ

The aim of the research is to study of the efficacy and safety of VIFERON® drug, rectal suppositories (interferon α-2b) 1,000,000 IU and 3,000,000 IU, and VIFERON®, gel for external and local use (interferon α-2b) 36,000 IU/g , in the complex therapy of a сoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in children. Materials and methods of research: as part of the open multicenter prospective controlled non-randomized study, 140 patients aged 1 to 17 years with the сoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were examined, and hospitalized in the infectious diseases hospital (Krasnoyarsk interdistrict clinical hospital № 1) in Krasnoyarsk from 20.04.20 to 1.08.20. Depending on the conducted antiviral therapy, the observed patients were divided into 2 groups: the main (70 people) and control (70 people). Starting from the moment of hospitalization, the main group of patients in the complex therapy received the preparation of interferon (IFN) α-2b with antioxidants (vit E and C), rectal suppositories, and IFNα-2b, gel for external and local use, according to the proposed schemes depending on age; patients of the control group were prescribed Umifenovir (Arbidol®) in age-specific dosages. The criteria of effectiveness of the therapy were the period of treatment of the main clinical symptoms of the disease (cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, conjunctivitis, taste and smell impairment, abdominal pain, diarrhea, etc.), elimination of viral antigen in samples from the nasopharynx and feces, product dynamics of IgM and IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in the blood serum. Results: the clinical efficacy and safety of high dose polytherapy of IFNα-2b with antioxidants, rectal suppositories in combination with IFNα-2b with antioxidants, gel for external and local use in the therapy of COVID-19 in children were confirmed. Since the appointment of therapy in patients of the main group, in comparison with the control group, the time for relief of the main clinical symptoms of COVID-19 has been statistically significantly reduced: nasal congestion – from 7 to 3 days (p=0,0001), sore throat – from 7 to 3 days (p=0,0001), hyperemia in the oropharynx – from 10 to 5 days (p=0,0001), mild cough – from 7 to 5 days (p=0,05), catarrhal conjunctivitis – from 5 to 3 days (p=0,012), smell disorders – from 10 to 4 days (p=0,001) and taste – from 10 to 4 days (p=0,001). The period of complete relief of all clinical symptoms according to the «total score» was statistically significantly reduced from 9 days in the control group to 5 days in the main group (p=0,05). The elimination time of SARS-CoV-2 from the nasopharynx was also statistically significantly reduced by 5 days in the main group of patients (p=0,05). In patients receiving increased doses of IFNα-2b with antioxidants, intestinal sanitation occurred 2,5 times more frequent, statistically significant increase in the level of IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 was detected in comparison with patients of the control group (p=0,05). No adverse events were recorded in the observed patients of both groups. Conclusion: the proven efficacy and safety of combined antiviral therapy with IFNα-2b with antioxidants, rectal suppositories in combination with IFNα-2b with antioxidants, gel for external and local use, are the basis for its widespread implementation into pediatric practice for the treatment of patients with сoronavirus disease 2019 COVID-19.

Interferons and interferon therapy. Literature review

The article describes the types and biological characteristics of interferons, which are an integral part of the antiviral defense of the body. The possibilities of using interferons, interferon inducers in the complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infections are shown. The validity and possible risks of using interferon preparations for the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections are analyzed, taking into account information about their mechanisms of action.

Anti-Adenovirus Activity of the Medical Intranasal Drug Nazoferon

Currently, 90 different types of human adenoviruses (HAdV) are known, which have been classified into seven species from A to G and new adenovirus types continue to emerge. Antigenic diversity of viruses inhibits the process of creating universal vaccines and causes the development of resistance to direct-acting antiviral drugs. In addition to the rapid development of drug resistance, too narrow a range of existing drugs and a significant number of side effects limits the treatment of adenoviral infections. There is currently no specific etiotropic antiviral drug. Therefore, the development of new effective drugs and the selection of the optimal drug for the treatment of infections caused by adenoviruses remain relevant. The aim of the study was to investigate the antiviral properties of the drugs Nazoferon spray and Nazoferon drops in a model of human adenovirus serotype 3. Methods. Determination of cytotoxicity and antiviral action of drugs was performed by standard colorimetric method using MTT. The titer of the virus, synthesized in the presence of drugs was determined by the end point of dilution of the virus, which causes 50% development of the cytopathic effect of the virus on cells (СPE). Results. Low cytotoxicity of Nazoferon spray and Nazoferon drops (manufactured by JSC Farmak, Ukraine) was shown, CC50 is 53854 IU/ml and 54357 IU/ml, respectively. Quantitative and qualitative composition of excipients had no cytotoxic effect. In prophylactic regimens, interferon preparations did not inhibit the reproduction of adenovirus in vitro. Taking into account that most of the virions remain associated with the cells during the reproduction of adenovirus in the cell, we used test to determine infectivity lysates of infected and treated cells. The infectious titer of the synthesized HAdV3 was reduced by 3.2 log10 and 3.7 log10 for Nazoferon spray and drops, respectively. Conclusions. Nazoferon spray and drops can be recommended as anti-adenoviral drugs that block the reproduction of adenovirus, and due to their bioavailability and low cost have significant advantages in the treatment of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) caused by human adenoviruses.

The value of interferon therapy for COVID-19 in children

The article presents a literature review, which provides data on the role of interferons in the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19 and the clinical efficacy of drugs based on recombinant interferon-alpha 2b in the treatment of children with new coronavirus infection. Shown the leading role ofinterferons as factors of the first line of defense against various viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. Numerous studies have proven the feasibility of including interferon preparations in COVID-19 therapyregimens in children, both as combinations with antiviral agents and as monotherapy.

Altered interferon defense in children with dynamically changed infectious mononucleosis

The state of the interferon system in 38 children with acute infectious mononucleosis (IM) caused by the Epstein—Barr virus was analyzed. Interferon status was examined in accordance with F.I. Ershov method based on assessing related biological activity by measuring interferon level in the blood serum or produced by blood cells. The aim of the study was to gain scientifically justified data for use of interferon preparations or interferonogens in IM combination therapy. For this, interferon status in children with acute IM was compared with that one not only in control group (30 healthy children, aged 3—6 and 20 children, aged 7—14 years, examined earlier to create an intra-laboratory interferon normal range), but also in children with lacunar angina or acute respiratory viral infection, hospitalized in the same department of the clinic and comparable with the main group in severity of the condition. In addition, we assessed changes in IFN-status in IM patients receiving no interferon preparations, one month after the disease onset. The study showed that patients with moderate acute IM were featured with decreased potential of blood leukocytes to virus-induced IFNa and mitogen-induced IFNy production observed with almost similar or some lower rate as in the control group of children hospitalized with angina or acute respiratory viral infection. Peripheral blood cells from moderate acute IM patients in the 3-6-year age group were found to produce virtually unaltered interferon level, whereas almost sole IFN-alpha production was affected in 7-14-year-old patients. Moreover, in 7-14-year old patients the level 1 and level 2 of IFNa deficiency was observed in 38% and 6% of cases, respectively. It is likely it was just this patient group requiring administration of any IFNa replacement therapy. As few as 12 children were re-examined after discharge from the clinic. Initially, prevalence and severity level of impaired interferon production in this subgroup did not differ from that one for total patient sample, whereas 1 month later a host potential to produce both IFNa and IFNy even without therapy acting on interferon system was noted to be moderately augmented.

CURRENT ISSUES OF ANTIVIRAL THERAPY OF ARVI AND INFLUENZA IN MILITARY UNITS

Conducting preventive medical and epidemiological measures for influenza and ARVI in closed military units, including on ships, vessels and auxiliary units of the Navy, is a factor of increasing the combat effectiveness of forces of the Russian Army. In the structure of total morbidity of military personnel, acute respiratory viral infections account for 35–50%, however, during the young military reinforcement, the incidence of these infections in combination with community-acquired pneumonia can reach 70–80%. The risk of exceeding the epidemiological threshold for respiratory tract infections, the etiological basis of which is viral aggression, is especially important in newly formed military contingents, for units participating in local military conflicts and peacekeeping operations, as well as with a new recruitment of cadets at training centers. The use of non-specific antiviral drugs based on exogenous recombinant interferon -2b is one of the conditions for adequate prevention of influenza and ARVI in closed military units. The paper presents the results from the analysis of publications on the effectiveness and Viferon® safety in the treatment of influenza and ARVI. Viferon is a preparation of recombinant human interferon -2b with a complex of antioxidants in various dosage forms, used in the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza. Use of Viferon in various dosage forms is a reliable method of prevention and treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections in military forces, including on ships, vessels and auxiliary units of the Navy, at risk of emergency epidemiological situations due to ARVI and influenza, in conditions of limited contingent.