Effect of human interferon on different functions of human neutrophils and eosinophils.

The capacity of neutrophils treated with interferon to release peroxidase or superoxide anion was increased when the cells were stimulated with opsonized zymosan, while it was decreased in eosinophils. The effect of treatment with interferon was thought to be mediated by a change in expression of C3b receptors on the neutrophils or eosinophils. The production of a slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis by eosinophils stimulated with opsonized zymosan or human IgG-coupled Sepharose 4B beads was markedly enhanced after incubation with interferon. Therefore it is suggested that interferon may play a role in the worsening of the condition in patients with bronchial asthma.