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beta interferon
noun
: an interferon produced especially by fibroblasts that is used in a form obtained from recombinant DNA especially in the treatment of multiple sclerosis marked by recurrent attacks alternating with periods of remission compare alpha interferon, gamma interferon
Examples of beta interferon in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Other were randomly assigned to get the lopinavir-ritonavir combination plus the antiviral drug ribavirin and injections of beta interferon.
—Maggie Fox, CNN, 8 May 2020
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Word History
First Known Use
1980, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near beta interferon
Cite this Entry
“Beta interferon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beta%20interferon. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
beta interferon
noun
: an interferon that is produced especially by fibroblasts, possesses antiviral activity, and is used in a form obtained from recombinant DNA especially in the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis marked by recurrent attacks of worsening neurological function alternating with periods of partial or complete remission
called also interferon beta
Note: Recombinant forms of beta interferon are marketed under the trademarks Avonex and Betaseron.
compare alpha interferon, gamma interferonMore from Merriam-Webster on beta interferon
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about beta interferon
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