In vertebrates, the interferon (IFN) response, characterized by induction of IFNs and the subsequent establishment of the cellular antiviral state, is the hallmark of antiviral immunity. IFNs are a group of secreted cytokines with activities to inhibit viral replication and regulate the function of immune cells1,2. In mammals, three types of IFNs (type I, II and III IFNs) have been identified, a..