(2'-5') Oligo A synthetase in human polymorphonuclear cells increased activity in interferon treatment and in viral infections.

The interferon (IFN)-induced enzyme 2-5A synthetase was found in human peripheral blood polymorphonuclear cells (PMNL). The average enzyme activity in a group of 15 patients with various viral infections was significantly higher (25-fold) than in healthy individuals. Eight patients with multiple sclerosis and six patients with bacterial infections were found to have normal 2-5A synthetase levels in the PMNL. Relationship of PMNL 2-5A synthetase levels to IFN was confirmed by finding enzyme increases in PMNL incubated in vitro with IFN, as well as in patients undergoing IFN therapy. These findings suggest that in PMNL, as in other cells, the level of 2-5A synthetase can be regulated by IFN and can be increased as a result of IFN information in diseases.