Interferon beta
Interferon beta
Interferon beta (pronounced: in-ter-FEER-on BAY-tuh) is a type of protein that is naturally produced in the human body. It is a form of interferon, which are proteins that are released by cells in response to the presence of viruses, bacteria, parasites, tumor cells, and other harmful invaders.
Etymology
The term "interferon" is derived from the protein's ability to "interfere" with viral replication. The "beta" designation is used to differentiate this particular type of interferon from others, such as interferon alpha and interferon gamma.
Function
Interferon beta is part of the body's immune system, helping to regulate the immune response and inhibit the replication of viruses. It is also used as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of several diseases, most notably multiple sclerosis.
Related Terms
- Interferon: A group of signaling proteins made and released by host cells in response to the presence of several viruses.
- Multiple Sclerosis: A chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, often treated with interferon beta.
- Immune System: The body's defense against infectious organisms and other invaders.
- Protein: Large, complex molecules that play many critical roles in the body.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Interferon beta
- Wikipedia's article - Interferon beta
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