Ribonuclease L

Ribonuclease L or RNase L is ribonuclease which when activated by interferon destroys all RNA within the cell, both cellular and viral. It is a key component of the intracellular immune response to viral pathogens.

RNase L is present in small quantities during the normal cell cycle. When interferon binds to receptors on the cell membrane, it triggers the production of more RNase L along with 2'-5' Oligodenylate Synthetase (OAS). OAS converts ATP to pyrophosphate and 2'-5'linked oligoadenylates. The 2-5 A molecules bind to RNase L and activates it. The activated RNaseL destroys all cellular and viral RNA, which triggers autophagy and programmed cell death.

Research in chronic fatigue syndrome
Several studies have found that the RNase L pathway is upregulated in CFS patients.