Interferon-omega: Current status in clinical applications

Since 1985, interferon (IFN)-omega, a type I IFN, has been identified in many animals, but not canines and mice. It has been demonstrated to have antiviral, anti-proliferation, and antitumor activities that are similar to those of IFN-alpha. To date, IFN-omega has been explored as a treatment option for some diseases or viral infections in humans and other animals. Studies have revealed that human IFN-omega displays antitumor activities in some models of human cancer cells and that it can be used to diagnose some diseases. While recombinant feline IFN-omega has been licensed in several countries for treating canine parvovirus, feline leukemia virus, and feline immunodeficiency virus infections, it also exhibits a certain efficacy when used to treat other viral infections or diseases. This review examines the known biological activity of IFN-omega and its clinical applications. We expect that the information provided in this review will stimulate further studies of IFN-omega as a therapeutic agent.