interferon (redirected from Interferon gamma)

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

Noun

Biochem a protein made by cells that stops the development of an invading virus

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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