Autoantibodies Against Type 1 Interferons: Tips for Healthy Immune Response

Autoantibodies and Viral Infections

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Zurich ( UZH ) and a team from USZ has revealed that approximately two per cent of the population develop autoantibodies against type 1 interferons , which can make individuals more vulnerable to viral diseases such as COVID-19 . The analysis was based on a large collection of historical blood samples , showing that severe viral infections can occur in people with compromised type 1 interferon systems , leading to an inadequate Immune response.

Viral infections trigger the production of type 1 interferons by immune cells , serving as early messengers to alert uninfected cells of a spreading virus . However , individuals with autoantibodies against type 1 interferons may experience a deficit in their immune response , making them more susceptible to severe cases of Covid-19 or influenza . Studies have shown that between 5 to 15 % of hospitalized patients with these viral infections had a type 1 interferon response deficit due to the presence of autoantibodies that target and inhibit the function of type 1 interferons.

mentions Benjamin Hale , a professor at the Institute of Medical Virology at UZH . By analyzing blood samples from around 2,000 adults over several decades , the research team discovered that about two per cent of individuals developed autoantibodies against type 1 interferons typically between the ages of 60 to 65 , highlighting an association with age.

Implications and Long - Term Effects

The study also revealed that individuals who produce autoantibodies against type 1 interferons may have reduced immunity against viruses , as these autoantibodies can persist in the blood throughout their lifetime . Even years after developing autoantibodies , individuals were found to be at a higher risk of suffering from severe COVID-19 . This long - term impact underscores the importance of identifying risk factors and developing diagnostic tests to detect individuals prone to developing this deficiency.

Researchers at the University Hospital Zurich ( USZ ) further investigated factors contributing to the development of autoantibodies against type 1 interferons , noting that individuals who produce these autoantibodies may also generate antibodies against other proteins in their bodies , indicating a loss of self - tolerance as they age . Understanding these risk factors could potentially lead to the development of preventive measures , such as vaccines or antivirals , for individuals with autoantibodies against type 1 interferons . By prioritizing these individuals for targeted interventions , it may be possible to reduce the severity of viral infections significantly.