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

Word History

First Known Use

1980, in the meaning defined above

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 interferon