noun
- proteins produced by cells in response to viral infections that help protect other cells from viruses
Usage: medical; biochemistry
Examples
- Interferons are naturally occurring proteins that boost the immune system.
- The doctor explained that interferons help fight viral infections.
- Scientists study interferons to develop new antiviral treatments.
- White blood cells release interferons when they detect a virus.
- Some cancer treatments use synthetic interferons to stimulate immunity.
- Interferons signal neighboring cells to prepare defenses against infection.