Interferons
Definition
Interferons are small, natural or synthetic protein and glycoprotein cytokines that are produced by leucocytes, T-lymphocytes, and fibroblasts in response to infection and other biological stimuli. In cancer treatment, they are used as immunotherapy against the proliferation of cancer cells.
Purpose
The goal of interferon use is to activate tumor-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. T-lymphocytes are cells of the immune system that destroy foreign cells. Thus, tumor cells would be destroyed based on immunotherapy.
Description
Interferons attach to special receptors on the surface of cell membranes. They have a variety of functions, including enhancing or inhibiting enzymes, decreasing cell...
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