IFNG and infection: SPP1 plays a vital role in activating pro-inflammatory monocytes and neutrophils, which are crucial for the immune defense in severe infections. It is essential immunomodulatory factor that recruits immune cells, particularly T cells and macrophages, and promotes antiviral cytokine production, such as IFN-γ (Matacic, 2020; Liukang et al., 2024)