interferon
nounUK /ˌɪn.təˈfɪːˌɒn/ · CA, US /ˌɪn.təɹˈfɪɹˌɑn/
Etymology From interfere + -on (suffix: chemical compound), from its role interfering with viral replication.
1
Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Natural sciences, Physical sciences Any of a group of glycoproteins, produced by the immune system, that prevent viral replication in infected cells.
- Derived terms
- albinterferon, antiinterferon, interferonopathy, peginterferon