Researchers compared two porcine interferons in laboratory tests with genetically varied PRRS virus isolates.
Two interferons tested in pig cells
A paper published on 3 September 2026 tested porcine interferon-alpha and interferon-lambda against a genetically diverse group of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) isolates. The experiments used porcine alveolar macrophages, immune cells from the lung. Interferon-alpha reduced viral replication and triggered stronger expression of interferon-responsive genes; interferon-lambda did not reduce replication in these tests.
Longer-lasting formulation also examined
The researchers also attached polyethylene glycol to interferon-alpha to extend its activity. This modified form reduced viral replication in cells treated before infection, although its inhibitory effect was weaker than that of unmodified interferon-alpha. The published results come from cell experiments; the researchers described animal testing as a future step.