alpha-interferon

noun

Meaning

A type of protein produced by white blood cells that helps the body combat viral infections and inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

Examples

  • The patient began a course of alpha-interferon to manage his chronic liver condition.
  • Researchers are studying how alpha-interferon interacts with specific immune receptors.

Synonyms: IFN-alpha, interferon, cytokine, immunomodulator