Interferon epsilon (IFNε) is a type I IFN with unusual patterns of expression and therefore, function. It is constitutively expressed by reproductive tract epithelium and regulated by hormones during estrus cycle, reproduction, and menopause and by exogenous hormones. The IFNe protein is encoded by a gene in the type I IFN locus, binds to IFNAR1 and 2 which are required for signaling via the JAK STAT pathway. Its affinity for binding receptors and transducing signals is less potent than IFNα or β subtypes in vitro. Nevertheless, in vivo experiments indicate its efficacy in regulating mucosal immune responses and protecting from bacterial and viral infections. These studies demonstrate a different mechanism of action to type I IFNs. In this organ system with dynamic fluxes in cellularity, requirement to tolerate an implanted fetus, and be protected from disease, there is co-option of a special IFN from a family of effective immunoregulators, with unique controls and modified potency to make it a safe and effective constitutive reproductive tract cytokine.

干扰素ε (IFNε) 是一种 I 型干扰素，具有不寻常的表达模式和功能。它由生殖道上皮组成型表达，在发情周期、生殖和更年期期间受激素和外源性激素的调节。IFNe 蛋白由 I 型 IFN 基因座中的基因编码，与 IFNAR1 和 2 结合，后者是通过 JAK STAT 途径进行信号传递所必需的。在体外，它对结合受体和转导信号的亲和力不如 IFNα 或 β 亚型。尽管如此，体内实验表明其在调节粘膜免疫反应和防止细菌和病毒感染方面的功效。这些研究证明了与 I 型干扰素不同的作用机制。在这个具有细胞结构动态流动的器官系统中，需要耐受植入的胎儿并免受疾病的侵害，有来自有效免疫调节剂家族的特殊干扰素的共同选择，具有独特的控制和改良的效力，使其成为安全的和有效的组成型生殖道细胞因子。