Interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) is a member of the IRF family. It plays a crucial role in activation of innate immunity and inflammation in response to viral infection, functioning as a molecular switch for antiviral activity. Double-stranded RNA generated during a viral infection leads to IRF3 activation by serine/threonine phosphorylation by TBK1 or IKBKE kinases, which induces a conformational change leading to its dimerization, nuclear localization, and association with CREBBP. The complex, known as DRAF1, activates transcription interferons alpha and beta, as well as other interferon-induced genes. These genes play a critical role in type 1 interferon (IFN)-dependent immune response. A recent study shows phosphorylation of innate immune adaptor proteins MAVS, STING, and TRIF recruits and specifies IRF3 phosphorylation and activation by the serine/threonine-protein kinase TBK1, thereby inducing the production of type-1 interferons.

Used for: Apoptosis, Transcription Factors, Signal Transduction, Innate Immunity