IFN-alpha induced IFN-gamma production of NK cells is not inhibited but enhanced by adenosine

Interferon alpha (IFNa) is produced by various cell types in response to viral infections and is used to treat HBV and HCV infection. To what extent an „immunomodulatory“ effect of IFNa contributes to its antiviral efficacy in viral hepatitis is poorly defined. We here aimed to explore in more detail the effects of IFNa on human NK cells. In particular we were interested in potential inhibitory molecules that could explain treatment failure. Based on our previous work, we tested whether adenosine could impair IFNa-induced activation of NK cells. Adenosine, a ribonucleoside produced by various cell types during i…