Any of a family of glycoproteins derived from human cells that normally has a role in fighting viral infections by preventing virus multiplication in cells

(abbreviation IFN) a class of small glycoproteins that exert antiviral activity at least in homologous cells through cellular metabolic processes involving synthesis of double stranded RNA, which is an intermediate in replication of RNA viruses. IFN's are classified in three groups alpha, beta, and gamma based on their reactivities with antibodies as well as their physico-chemical properties and their cells of origin and method of induction.

A soluble, small, cell-specific protein that inhibits virus multiplication.

a protein substance naturally produced in the body and believed to function to modulate the immune system. Interferons used in MS are either injected once-a-week by intramuscular (IM) injection or every other day by subcutaneous (SC) injection.

A protein liberated by cells following exposure to viruses and other microorganisms. Interferons induce protein synthesis inhibitors that block translation of viral mRNA.

peptides that promote the production of a protein that stimulates the immune system

A natural body protein produced by normal cells. Interferon is capable of killing cancer cells or stopping their growth. It is produced by recombinant DNA technology and used as a form of immunotherapy.

A group of proteins released by cells that have been infected with a virus. Interferon appears to inhibit viral growth.

A substance that stimulates the growth of certain disease-fighting blood cells in the immune system, thus improving the body's natural response to disease. A type of biological response modifier.

a protein produced by animal cells when they are invaded by viruses that is released into the bloodstream or intercellular fluid to induce healthy cells to manufacture an enzyme that counters the infection.

a protein produced by body cells that fights viral infections and certain cancers

A protein made by virus-infected cells that inhibits viral multiplication.

Low molecular protein that protect cells from viral infection. Interferon gamma is the major cytokine that regulates lymphocyte cell responses and acts on macrophages to enhance inflammatory responses.

A small and highly potent molecule that functions in an autocrine and paracrine manner, and that induces cells to resist viral replication. This term is related to RNAi because in mammals introduction of dsRNA longer than 30 nt induces a sequence-nonspecific interferon response.

a cytokine (chemical messenger) that play a role in immune response.

A protein or proteins formed when cells are exposed to viral or other foreign nucleic acids. Important in immune function and have anti-tumor activity.

a cytokine (see above in Glossary) used in anti-cancer and anti-viral therapy to halt or slow proliferation of cancer cells or viruses. Interferon is sometimes used in combination with chemotherapy.

a type of cytokine which is produced by the body in response to an infection. It also protects the body from other infections.

A family of naturally occurring proteins that normally have a role in fighting viral infections. Interferon has been created artificially in the laboratory for use in the treatment of specific diseases (e.g., cancer).

A general term used to describe a family of 20 to 25 proteins that cause a cell to become resistant to a wide variety of viruses. They are produced by cells infected by almost any virus.

A type of antiviral protein which stimulates the immune system.

Any of a group of glycoproteins that help fight off viruses and make uninfected cells immune to that particular virus

a chemical transmitter emitted by cells which have been invaded by viruses.

a low weight protein normally produced in blood and tissues as a response to a viral infection. Now can be manufactured outside the body, and given for either anti-viral properties or as an anti-cancer agent.

one of the proteins (alpha, beta, gamma), naturally produced by virus-infected cells; it induces uninfected cells to synthesize antiviral proteins that inhibit intracellular viral replication in uninfected cells; synthesized artificially via recombinant DNA methods

a protein substance produced by virus-infected cells that prevents reproduction of the virus

A glycoprotein produced by virus-infected animal cells; increases the resistance of neighboring cells to the virus.

A type of treatment that can improve the body's natural response to disease. It is used to treat some chronic forms of hepatitis infections.

Substance naturally produced in the body by virus-infected cells that protects noninfected cells from viral infection. Interferon also has various effects on the immune system and is used in the treatment of several cancers and infectious diseases.

Any of a group of heat-stable soluble basic antiviral glycoproteins of low molecular weight that are produced usually by cells exposed to the action of a virus, sometimes to the action of another intracellular parasite (as a bacterium), or experimentally to the action of some chemicals.

A protein produced by various cells in the body. Large quantities of different interferons may be produced in the laboratory. These proteins are used in the treatment of some forms of cancer. Interferon is a type of biological response modifier.

Any of a group of proteins that can improve the body's natural response to disease by blocking viral infections and affecting cellular function. In cancer, it slows the rate of growth and division of cancer cells.

an antiviral protein produced by cells that have been invaded by a virus; inhibits replication of the virus

a natural substance produced by the body in response to a virus. Interferons can stimulate the immune system to fight the growth of cancer.

A substance secreted by an infected cell which strengthens the defenses of nearby cells that are not yet infected. These substances are named differently according to their activity (interferon alpha, interferon gamma, etc.), and some have been manufactured into immune- modulating drugs.   Click here to return to list  Click here to return to list

An interfering protein that neutralizes virus. It is produced by the body's cells in response to foreign nucleic acid, such as viruses. It protects uninfected cells. - A protein substance that is produced naturally in the body by the natural killer cells of the immune system in response to a variety of foreign substances, such as viruses and bacteria. - These proteins are antiviral cytokins and are also potent immune regulators and growth factors.- Interferons fall into three groups: Alpha is produced by Leukocytes in response to viruses or nucleic acids; Beta is produced by fibrobasts in response to viruses or nucleic acids; Gamma is produced by Lymphocytes (both T and LGL) in response to immune stimuli. It is produced by activated T-cells and natural killer cells. A degree of immune activation leads to the production of Gamma, an increase in antigen presenting cell function (APC), activates macrophages in general, and probably enhances their capacity to act as APCs.

A type of cytokine protein produced by cells. Interferon helps regulate the body's immune system.

A group of immune system proteins, produced and released by cells infected by a virus, which inhibit viral multiplication and modify the body's immune response. One of the interferons, interferon beta-1b (Betaseron) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1993 for treatment of relapsing-remitting MS. It was found in a clinical trial to reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations by approximately 30%. A second interferon, interferon beta-1a (Avonex®) has also been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of MS exacerbations in people with relapsing-remitting disease. Avonex® was approved for use in MS in 1996.

interferons: are Proteins produced by the body with the specific purpose of regulating cell functions. Interferons are produced in the laboratory in large quantities, and are sometimes used in the treatment of certain cancers.

The name given to a group of proteins that the body produces naturally in response to viral infections and other stimuli. Interferon increases the activity of natural killer cells (types of lymphocytes that are part of the body's immune system).

Molecule (protein) produced by virally infected cells that helps the body fight off viral infections

A protein first recognized in animals for its action in inhibiting viral replication and inducing resistance in host cells. The interferons (IFNs) are a highly conserved family of multi-functional, species-specific, secreted proteins originally classified on the basis of cellular origin including: leucocyte IFN (alpha), fibroblastic IFN (beta) and immune IFN (gamma). Examples from each of these classes have been cloned and commercialized. The IFNs have been reclassified based on their recognition of cell-surface receptors. In humans there are three major classes: Type I consists mainly of the original types alpha (including various isoforms) and beta; Type II consists of IFN gamma; Type III consists of IFN lambda. The IFNs have multiple biological activities demonstrated to greater or lesser degree by the various types. These include: the induction of intracellular mechanisms having anti-viral effects (affecting viral protein synthesis) and anti-proliferative effects (affecting cell replication); the stimulation of cellular immune responses against viruses, bacteria and tumours; and, the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses.

Any of various virus fighting proteins that are made by the body and that activate the immune response.

A protein produced by the body's immune cells which triggers the immune system to attack invading pathogens. Interferon signals neighboring cells into action and also interferes with how foreign cells grow and multiply

class of proteins released by animal cells in response to antigens and certain other triggers. Some interferons induce antiviral activity; others enhance the immune response

in-ter-FEAR-on A polypeptide produced by a T cell infected with a virus that diffuses to surrounding cells and stimulates them to manufacture biochemicals that halt viral replication. 791

A cytokine (or hormone) which is produced normally in response to a viral infection. Produced by genetic engineering techniques, synthetic interferon is given as treatment for Myeloma. It is used primarily as maintenance therapy in the plateau phase to block any re-growth of Myeloma and thus delays or prevents relapse.

a group of proteins produced by infected host cells that reduce the likelihood of viral infection for nearby cells. As with many immune system hormones, low concentrations produce different results than high concentrations. There are three identified Interferons, named alpha, beta, and gamma. Interferon-gamma, for example, is secreted in significant quantity during a viral "stomach flu" infection. Its side effects are unpleasant.

A substance produced naturally by the body to help defend itself against viral infection. The administration of synthetically manufactured interferon alpha in large doses can help to reduce the amount of hepatitis C in the blood and slow down or stop the disease process.

One of a number of chemicals released into the blood and tissues as part of the body's defense to damage by infection or inflammation. Interferons are used to treat a number of conditions including Multiple Sclerosis.

A natural body protein produced by normal cells that is capable of killing cancer cells or stopping their unrestrained growth. Interferon was originally discovered as an antiviral agent, but has now been found to have some anti-cancer activity as well. Interferon may be artificially produced in large quantities using the technique of recombinant DNA.

See Beta Interferon.

A naturally occurring substance that interferes with the ability of viruses to reproduce. Interferon also boosts the immune system. See the entire definition of Interferon

is a protein, produced in virus-infected animal cells. Interferon inhibits, non-specifically, the replication of viruses.

A natural chemical released by the body in response to viral infections. Interferon can be artificially produced and used as a form of immunotherapy.

A small protein secreted by virus-infected cells. Interferon molecules diffuse to nearby cells and bind to membrane receptors to inhibit the ability of viruses to multiply within these cells.

a body protein that affects antibody production and can modulate (regulate) the immune system

A set of natural proteins made by cells of the immune systems of most animals in response to virus infection or antigen stimulation.

A protein that is secreted by cells in the body as a response to viral infections. Alpha interferon is one specific type of this protein. It was genetically engineered to be used in the treatment of viral hepatitis and other viral diseases.

Type of immunotherapy. Natural substance produced in the body in tiny quantities as part of the immune response. Given in much larger quantities as treatment to boost the immune system and help fight the cancer. There are different types of interferon eg interferon alpha.

A protein activator of the immune system.

substance that helps regulate immune responses.

A class of proteins important in the immune response. Interferons inhibit viral infections and may have anticancer properties.

a protein in a cell produced to prevent replication of an virus in the cell.

a group of proteins released by white blood cells that combat a virus.

a group of proteins with antiviral and anti-tumor properties that is created by infected cells in response to viruses and foreign nucleic acids; it can also be created synthetically; the three types of inter-feron help immunocompromised patients: alpha, made by leukocytes; beta, made by fibroblasts; and gamma, made by lymphocytes.

A protein molecule, referred to as a biological modifier, that enables cells to resist infection by a virus.

A protein produced by the immune system to fight viral infection.

(in-tur-feer'on)- A protein substance produced by white blood cells and other types of cells that have been exposed to certain viruses. In test animals, interferon has shown some activity against tumors. Studies of its usefulness in treating some types of human cancer are under way. One of a number of new agents available as biological therapy.

a type of protein involved in the bodyâ€(tm)s fight against infection.

a substance that has been shown to help fight hepatitis C Back to previous page

a protein released by animal cells which prevents a virus from reproducing itself.

A protein that is produced by the body to protect against infection. Many different cells including liver cells produce natural interferon. Interferon also can be manufactured artificially through biotechnology for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B and C.

a class of protein produced in minuscule amounts by infected cells that appear to boost the immune system and its ability to fight cancer.

A glycoprotein chemical produced normally by mammalian cells in order to fight infection and cancer. It is now produced by recombinant DNA techniques and used as a drug to treat CML and other cancers. Also known as Intron-A. Learn more.

a group of cytokines that activate protection against viruses

Special proteins made by cells to fight virus infections.

A substance that is produced when the body detects infection with a virus. Interferon is released to coat uninfected cells to protect them.

A type of biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to disease). It slows the rate of growth and division of cancer cells, causing them to become sluggish and die.

A group of chemicals produced by cells infected by viruses that have the ability to suppress virus growth.

Class of proteins produced by body to neutralize an endotoxin or virus attack. Three main interferons are alpha, beta, and gamma.

a class of proteins processing anti viral and antitumour activity produced by lymphocytes, fibroblasts and other tissues. They are released by cells invaded by virus and are able to inhibit virus multiplication in noninfected cells. Interferon preparations have been shown to have some clinical effect as anti viral agents. The preparations so far available have produced side effects, such as fever, lassitude, and prostration, not dissimilar from those accompanying acute virus infection itself.

A group of proteins released by the immune system that inhibit the growth of an infection caused by a virus.

A biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infections and other diseases). Interferons interfere with the division of cancer cells and can slow tumor growth. There are several types of interferons, including interferon-alpha, -beta, and -gamma. The body normally produces these substances. They are also made in the laboratory to treat cancer and other diseases.

A protein produced by cells, interferon helps regulate the body’s immune system, boosting activity when a threat, such as a virus, is detected. Scientists have learned that interferon helps fight against cancer, so it is used for immunotherapy of some types of cancer. Internal mammary nodes: Lymph nodes beneath the breast bone on each side. Some breast cancers may spread to these nodes.

A protein substance produced by body cells in response to invasion by viruses and other intracellular parasites; it interferes with the synthesis of new virus and is effective against certain protozoal parasitic infections.

A group of proteins having antiviral activity and capable of enhancing and modifying the immune response.

(in-ter-FEER-on): A biological response modifier (a substance that stimulates the body's response to infection and disease). Interferons affect the division of cancer cells and slow tumor growth. There are several types of interferons, including interferon-alpha, interferon-beta, and interferon-gamma. These substances are normally produced by the body. They are also made in the laboratory for use in treating cancer and other diseases.

A group of glyco proteins released by white blood cells and fibroblasts when the invading organism is a virus. They inhibit production of the virus within infected cells, prevent the spread of the virus to other cells, enhance the activity of macrophages, natural killer cells, and cytotoxic T cells, and may inhibit the growth of certain tumour cells.

A protein produced by the body to protect against infection. Many different cells produce interferon, usually at low levels. Interferon is also produced in the laboratory. Interferon is used to treat infections like hepatitis and conditions like multiple sclerosis.

A naturally occurring substance in the body that stimulates the immune system. Artificial forms of interferon created in a laboratory can be used as treatments for diseases like hepatitis B and C.

One of a number of antiviral proteins that control the immune response. Interferon (IFN) alpha is secreted by a virally infected cell and strengthens the defenses of nearby uninfected cells. A manufactured version of IFN alpha (trade names Roferon, Intron A) is an FDA-approved treatment for Kaposi sarcoma, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Interferon gamma is synthesized by immune system cells (natural killer cells and CD4 cells). It activates macrophages and helps promote cellular immunity.

One of a number of antiviral proteins that modulate the immune response. Approved as therapeutic agent for certain malignancies, e.g., Kaposi's sarcoma and viral infections, e.g., hepatitis.

(in-ter- fear-on): a protein produced by cells. Interferon helps regulate the body's immune system, boosting activity when a threat, such as a virus, is found. Scientists have learned that interferon helps fight against cancer, so it is used to treat some types of cancer.

a biological response modifier that stimulates the growth of certain disease-fighting blood cells in the immune system.

A protein formed by the cells of the immune system in the presence of a virus, etc. It prevents viral reproduction, and is capable of protecting noninfected cells from viral infection. Several kinds of interferon exist including alpha, beta, and gamma.

Interferons are substances within the immune system that are produced in response to infection.

Interferons (IFNs) are natural proteins produced by the cells of the immune system of most vertebrates in response to challenges by foreign agents such as viruses, bacteria, parasites and tumor cells. Interferons belong to the large class of glycoproteins known as cytokines. Interferon's job is to inhibit viral replication within other cells.