The action of interferons on virus-associated human neoplasms.

Interferons (IFNs) exert antitumour effects on a number of virus-associated human neoplasms. Encouraging results have been obtained especially for papillomavirus and HIV-associated tumours. The exact mechanisms that cause IFN to exert antitumour effects are as yet unknown. IFN therapy is attended by dose-dependent side effects. IFN schedules should be improved and combination schemes formulated for optimal effect. The role of IFNs in tumour cells and normal cells should be elucidated to pinpoint the part played by the IFN system during the development of tumour diseases in humans.