Final answer:
Nonspecific agents that protect uninfected cells against viruses are known as interferons. They are part of the innate immune response and work by signaling other cells to produce protective measures against viruses. Macrophages also contribute to this response through phagocytosis and chemical signaling.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nonspecific agents that protect uninfected cells against viruses are typically a group of proteins known as interferons. Interferons are a type of cytokine, which are chemical signals between cells that induce a wide range of nonspecific defenses. They are released by virus-infected cells and serve to warn neighboring cells of the viral presence. Once released, interferons stimulate cells to produce proteins that interfere with viral replication. This preventive strategy is part of the body's innate immune system response, which acts quickly to prevent the spread of infection. Moreover, interferons activate immune cells like macrophages to enhance the immune response.
Macrophages are versatile cells capable of both phagocytosis, engulfing and digesting pathogens, and producing chemicals, such as those that promote inflammation, to fight infections. Macrophages can invade host tissues and continue their protective role by attacking foreign cells. Alongside cytokines like interferons, they are integral to the body's first line of defense against pathogens.