Final answer:
Interferons alpha and beta combat viral replication by signaling uninfected and infected cells to upregulate antiviral proteins, inhibit protein synthesis, induce RNA destruction, and trigger apoptosis in infected cells. These actions are vital in slowing down and controlling viral infections alongside activating other immune cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
Interferons alpha and beta induce resistance to viral replication primarily by upregulating antiviral proteins. When interferons are released by infected cells, they warn nearby uninfected cells about the infection. These uninfected cells then alter their gene expression to increase their resistance to infection, which includes reducing protein synthesis to inhibit viral replication. Interferons also signal for the destruction of RNA and signal infected cells to undergo apoptosis, further hindering the virus's ability to proliferate.
This reactionary mechanism is a crucial part of the immune system's response to viral infections, aiming at slowing down viral replication and preventing the spread of the virus within the host. Interferons play a critical role not only in combating viral infections but also in other important functions such as tumor surveillance and activating other immune cells like macrophages.