The invention provides for a method of inhibiting interferon-beta gene expression and/or reducing the level of interferon-beta in a cell by contacting the cell with a Na+, Ca2+, or K+ ion-channel modulator. The invention also provides for a method of treating a disease or disorder characterized by elevated interferon beta levels or elevated levels of interferon-beta gene expression. Additionally, the invention provides a method for treating pathogenic or non-pathogenic infections.
