lymphokine

noun

lym·​pho·​kine ˈlim(p)-fə-ˌkīn How to pronounce lymphokine (audio)
: any of various substances (such as interleukin-2) of low molecular weight that are not antibodies, are secreted by T cells in response to stimulation by antigens, and have a role (such as the activation of macrophages or the enhancement or inhibition of antibody production) in cell-mediated immunity

Word History

Etymology

lymph- + -kine, from Greek kinein to move about — more at -kinesis

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lymphokine was in 1969

Dictionary Entries Near lymphokine

Cite this Entry

“Lymphokine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lymphokine. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

lymphokine

noun
lym·​pho·​kine ˈlim(p)-fə-ˌkīn How to pronounce lymphokine (audio)
: any of various substances (as an interleukin) of low molecular weight that are not antibodies, are secreted by T cells in response to stimulation by antigens, and have a role (as the activation of macrophages or the enhancement or inhibition of antibody production) in cell-mediated immunity

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