lymphokine

lym·pho·kine  (lmf-kn)

n.

Any of various substances released by T cells that have been activated by antigens. They function in the immune response through a variety of actions, including stimulating the production of nonsensitized lymphocytes and activating macrophages.

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[lympho- + Greek knein, to move; see kinin.]

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lymphokine  (lmf-kn)

Any of various cytokines released by T cells that have been activated by specific antigens. Lymphokines act as mediators in the immune response by activating macrophages and stimulating lymphocyte production. Interferon is a lymphokine.

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

lymphokine - a cytokine secreted by helper T cells in response to stimulation by antigens and that acts on other cells of the immune system (as by activating macrophages) cytokine - any of various protein molecules secreted by cells of the immune system that serve to regulate the immune system interleukin - any of several lymphokines that promote macrophages and killer T cells and B cells and other components of the immune system