Type III IFNs, or
IFN-λ, are the newest members of the IFN family and were long believed
to play roles that were redundant with those of type I IFNs. However,
IFN-λ displays unique traits that delineate them as primary protectors
of barrier integrity at mucosal sites. This unique role stems both from
the restricted expression of IFN-λ receptor, confined to epithelial
cells and to a limited pool of immune cells, and from unique
immunomodulatory properties of IFN-λ. Here, we discuss recent findings
that establish the unique capacity of IFN-λ to act at the barriers of
the host to balance tissue tolerance and immune resistance against viral
and bacterial challenges.
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