Interferon Gamma Unit Converter

Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) is a signaling protein produced by immune cells that plays a central role in coordinating the body's defense against infections and abnormal cells. It is the only member of the type II interferon family.

A serum IFN-γ test measures the amount of this cytokine circulating in your blood. Elevated levels reflect immune activation, while very low levels may indicate an impaired immune response. Normal circulating levels in healthy adults are typically below 5.8 pg/mL.

This test is distinct from interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) used for tuberculosis screening. IGRAs measure IFN-γ produced by T cells after stimulation with TB-specific antigens, whereas a serum IFN-γ test measures the baseline circulating level of the cytokine.

Produced primarily by immune cells, including natural killer (NK) cells as a rapid first-line response, and by CD4+ T helper 1 (Th1) cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells as part of the adaptive immune response. Smaller amounts can also be produced by NKT cells, B cells, and antigen-presenting cells.