ISG15

ISG15

A gene on chromosome 1p36.33 that encodes a ubiquitin-like protein which binds to target proteins in response to IFN-alpha or IFN-beta stimulation. ISG15 has chemotactic activity on neutrophils and activates them, triggering their release of eosinophil chemotactic factors. It may: play a role as a trans-acting binding factor, directing ligated target proteins to bind to intermediate filaments; have autocrine, paracrine and endocrine effects, including cell-to-cell signalling, possibly by inducing IFN-gamma secretion by macrophages; respond to IFN-tau secreted by the foetus; and bind and regulate proteins involved in the release of prostaglandin F2-alpha, preventing lysis of the corpus luteum and maintaining the pregnancy.