These results indicate that, although K562 cells are capable of activating the type I interferon (IFN-I) pathway, they do so belatedly and less efficiently compared to myeloid lineages such as THP-1, which robustly secrete IFN-β from the first day post-infection (Supplementary Figure S5)—consistent with their monocyte phenotype, described as highly competent for IFN responses. This evidence concerns the gene IFNB1 and infection.