Terminology Service for NFDI4Health

Interferon

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Human interferons have been classified into 3 groups: alpha, beta, and gamma. Both alpha- and beta-IFNs, previously designated type I, are acid-stable, but they differ immunologically and in regard to some biologic and physiochemical properties. The IFNs produced by virus-stimulated leukocytes (leukocyte IFNs) are predominantly of the alpha type. Those produced by lymphoblastoid cells are about 90% alpha and 10% beta. Induced fibroblasts produce mainly or exclusively the beta type. The alpha- and beta-IFNs differ widely in amino acid sequence. The gamma or immune IFNs, which are produced by T lymphocytes in response to mitogens or to antigens to which they are sensitized, are acid-labile and serologically distinct from alpha- and beta-IFNs. (from OMIM 147570) [ ]

Term info

Label

Interferon

Synonyms
  • Human Fibroblast Interferon
  • Human Leukocyte Interferon
  • Human Lymphoblastoid Interferon
  • IFN
  • Interferon
  • interferon
Subsets

NCIT_C116977, NCIT_C142800, NCIT_C142799

ALT DEFINITION

A biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infection and disease). Interferons interfere with the division of cancer cells and can slow tumor growth. There are several types of interferons, including interferon-alpha, -beta, and -gamma. These substances are normally produced by the body. They are also made in the laboratory for use in treating cancer and other diseases.

Display Name

Interferon

Legacy Concept Name

Interferon

Preferred Name

Interferon

Semantic Type

Amino Acid, Peptide, or Protein, Immunologic Factor

UMLS CUI

C0021747

code

C20493