Which proteins help inhibit viruses from causing diseases?

Interferons are crucial proteins that play a significant role in the body’s defense against viral infections. When cells detect the presence of a virus, they produce interferons that trigger a cascade of immune responses aimed at inhibiting viral replication. These proteins not only help protect neighboring uninfected cells but also activate immune cells, enhancing the overall response to the infection. Interferons can increase the expression of molecules that help the immune system recognize and eliminate virus-infected cells, making them a vital part of the body's antiviral response.

Other options, while related to the immune system, serve different functions. Immunoglobulins, for example, are antibodies produced by B cells that specifically target pathogens but do not have the same broad antiviral activity as interferons. Cytokines are signaling molecules that regulate immune responses, and antigens are substances that the immune system recognizes as foreign, but neither directly inhibits viral replication.