Interferon Production by T Helper Cells: The Role in HIV Infection

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HIV completes its life cycle by attacking and breaking down T helper cells, which are crucial for the immune response. There is curiosity about whether these T helper cells can produce interferon during this process. While they can produce interferon, it is not a definitive solution against HIV. Initially, there was significant optimism about interferon as a potential antiviral treatment, but its effectiveness is limited, especially against resilient viruses like HIV, which can persist despite interferon treatment.
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HIV completes the life cycle and finally causes the breaks down the T helper cells. During this process, are the T helper cells capable of producing interferon? Just curious. Tried to do some research, but couldn't understand what I read. So, kindly explain in a simplified language.
 
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I believe they can yes, but interferon is not the magic bullet that scientists once hoped it was. If I remember correctly when interferon was first discovered there was great hope that it could be synthesised and administered as an anti-viral panacea but unfortunately that is not the case. Interferon efficacy is not perfect and tenacious viruses like HIV are able to survive.
 

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