Question

In addition to inhibiting protein synthesis, ____ increases phagocytosis by macrophages, boosts antibody production from B lymphocytes, and helps activate NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes to kill virus-infected cells.

Answer 1

Interferons are critical in immune defense, helping to inhibit protein synthesis in virally infected cells, stimulate macrophage and neutrophil activity, and enhance the function of NK and cytotoxic T cells to fight off viral infections and cancer.

Step-by-step explanation:

In addition to inhibiting protein synthesis, interferons increase phagocytosis by macrophages, boost antibody production from B lymphocytes, and help activate NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes to kill virus-infected cells. These responses curb viral infections by preventing the virus from replicating and spreading. Interferons play a crucial role by blocking viral protein synthesis in host cells, which is vital for viral replication.

Interferons also stimulate the immune system in several other ways. They stimulate macrophages and neutrophils to enable them to kill intracellular pathogens more effectively and stimulate NK cells to kill more efficiently. Furthermore, during an immune response, interferons facilitate the production of memory cytotoxic T cells, which are essential for long-lasting immunity against viruses.

Lastly, interferons are significant in the immune response against cancer, where they can enhance the stimulation of cytotoxic T cells and aid in therapeutic vaccine responses to assist the body's immune system in fighting cancer cells.

Answer 2

Interferons are proteins that, alongside inhibiting protein synthesis in virally infected cells, enhance various immune responses including macrophage phagocytosis, B cell antibody production, and the activation of NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes.

Step-by-step explanation:

In addition to inhibiting protein synthesis, interferons increase phagocytosis by macrophages, boost antibody production from B lymphocytes, and help activate NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes to kill virus-infected cells.

Interferons are crucial for the immune response, as they not only slow viral replication but also enhance the ability of the immune system to eliminate viruses.

Interferons stimulate cytotoxic T cells and produce memory cytotoxic T cells. Furthermore, they enhance the capability of macrophages, neutrophils (PMNs), and NK cells for more effective killing of pathogens. By promoting these responses, interferons play a significant role in both innate and adaptive immunity, showing both antiviral and anticancer activities.