Prospects of using interferon inducers of the double stranded RNA type for the treatment of viral and bacterial infections
The article highlights the role of the interferon system in the host defense against infections, primarily those caused by viral agents. The authors explain the effect of double stranded RNA (dsRNA)-based products used as interferon inducers (II) from a pathogenesis standpoint. The key advantage of interferon inducers is a broad spectrum of antiviral activity based on immunomodulating and secondary etiotropic effects. The addition of the so-called early-type II (the production of interferon occurs 2 - 6 hours after administration) to the treatment schemes promotes a timely and adequate immune response and helps to achieve a therapeutic effect. Despite a long-standing interest in the natural dsRNA, the imperfection of the described methods of its synthesis provided the impetus for finding and developing techniques aimed at creating an efficient and safe product. A novel technology of sodium ribonucleinate production enabled to receive an active bacterial endotoxin-free pharmaceutical substance and to minimize the concentration of related impurities which considerably increased the product safety. The innovative solutions underpinning the production of an advanced interferon inducer of the double stranded RNA type will significantly expand the potential applications of interferon therapy.