Definition of interferon in English:
interferon
noun ˌɪntəˈfɪərɒnˌɪn(t)ərˈfɪrˌɑn
mass nounBiochemistry A protein released by animal cells, usually in response to the entry of a virus, which has the property of inhibiting virus replication.
Example sentencesExamples
- It helps the body produce more interferon to defend itself from viruses and other harmful matter.
- If this fails, interferons block the virus from forming particles which can be released and infect other neurons.
- Other forms of immunotherapy, such as interferon, are being tested in clinical trials.
- One example of an antiviral compound is interferon which is a chemical produced by the body in response to viral infection.
- Your body naturally produces interferon as a response to viral infections.
Origin
1950s: from interfere + -on.
Definition of interferon in US English:
interferon
nounˌɪn(t)ərˈfɪrˌɑnˌin(t)ərˈfirˌän
Biochemistry A protein released by animal cells, usually in response to the entry of a virus, which has the property of inhibiting virus replication.
Example sentencesExamples
- If this fails, interferons block the virus from forming particles which can be released and infect other neurons.
- Other forms of immunotherapy, such as interferon, are being tested in clinical trials.
- One example of an antiviral compound is interferon which is a chemical produced by the body in response to viral infection.
- It helps the body produce more interferon to defend itself from viruses and other harmful matter.
- Your body naturally produces interferon as a response to viral infections.
Origin
1950s: from interfere + -on.