interferon (redirected from interferon alpha)

in·ter·fer·on  (ntr-fîrn)

n.

Any of a group of glycoproteins that are produced by different cell types in response to various stimuli, such as exposure to a virus, bacterium, parasite, or other antigen, and that prevent viral replication in newly infected cells and, in some cases, modulate specific cellular functions.

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[interfer(e) + -on.]

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interferon [ˌɪntəˈfɪərɒn]

n

(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biochemistry) Biochem any of a family of proteins made by cells in response to virus infection that prevent the growth of the virus. Some interferons can prevent cell growth and have been tested for use in cancer therapy

[from interfere + -on]

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interferon  (ntr-fîrn)

Any of a group of glycoproteins that are involved in blocking viral replication in newly infected cells and are cytokines that modulate the body's immune response. Alpha interferon is used a treatment for viral hepatitis and certain cancers, such as leukemia. Beta interferon is used as a treatment for some types of multiple sclerosis.

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

interferon - an antiviral protein produced by cells that have been invaded by a virus; inhibits replication of the virus alpha-interferon - a form of interferon that is produced endogenously and commercially for its pharmacological effects (including regulation of the immune system and antiviral and antineoplastic effects) antiviral, antiviral agent, antiviral drug - any drug that destroys viruses beta-interferon - a form of interferon that is produced by fibroblasts and have antiviral effects; used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis gamma-interferon - a form of interferon that is produced by T cells and macrophages; involved in the activation of phagocytes

Translations

interferon [ˌɪntəˈfɪərɒn] N → interferón m

interferon

n (Chem) → Interferon nt