While type I IFNs are one of the classical cytokines required for an effect antiviral response, higher type I IFN levels are associated with worsening disease in bacterial infections, such as tuberculosis and lepromatous leprosy. Type I IFN is also being investigated for a potential role in neurodegeneration; loss of IFNAR expression prolonged survival in murine models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Type I IFNs are essential cytokines for antiviral responses, but they can exacerbate bacterial infections like tuberculosis and lepromatous leprosy. Type I IFN is also being investigated for its potential role in neurodegeneration; a decrease in IFNAR expression prolongs survival in mouse models of ALS.