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Glite Dictionary
gamma-interferon

gamma-interferon

8.2
A protein made by certain white blood cells that activates cells that eat germs to fight infections
  • noun
  • /ˈɡæmə ˌɪntərˈfɪrən/
  • Specialized
translation icon : gamma-interferón
  • Macrophages become more effective when stimulated by gamma-interferon.

Examples

  • Researchers are studying the effects of gamma-interferon on autoimmune diseases.

  • The patient's immune response improved after treatment with gamma-interferon.

  • The body produces gamma-interferon in response to infections.

  • Researchers are studying gamma-interferons for their therapeutic potential.

  • Researchers found that gamma-interferon is crucial for activating phagocytes in the immune response.

  • After the vaccine, the patient's body produced high levels of gamma-interferon to fight off infection.

  • Doctors discovered that gamma-interferon plays a significant role in regulating immune system functions.

Surface Forms

gamma-interferon singular
gamma-interferons plural

Morphology

gamma-interferon = interferon (transparent) = gamma + interferon

A subtype name formed by attaching the Greek letter 'gamma' to the protein name 'interferon'; the meaning is a straightforward designation of type.

Etymology

Gamma-interferon combines gamma, the third Greek letter, and interfere, which means 'get in the way'. It was named because interferons are proteins that 'interfere' with viruses and help immune cells, so gamma-interferon is a specific type of interferon the body uses to strengthen its immune response.