macrophage activating factor
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Related to macrophage activating factor: migration inhibitory factor
macrophage activating factor
Any of a heterogeneous group of lymphokines secreted by sensitised lymphocytes, the most potent of which is IFN-gamma. IFN-activated macrophages have increased bactericidal and tumouricidal activity and morphological evidence of “maturation”—e.g., increased spreading, pseudopod formation and vacuolisation.Segen's Medical Dictionary. © 2012 Farlex, Inc. All rights reserved.
macrophage activating factor
Abbreviation: MAFA lymphokine that stimulates macrophages to become more effective killers of certain microbial cells. Macrophages stimulated by MAF can kill tumor cells.
See also: factor
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