macrophage activating 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.

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macrophage activating factor

Abbreviation: MAF

A lymphokine that stimulates macrophages to become more effective killers of certain microbial cells. Macrophages stimulated by MAF can kill tumor cells.

See also: factor

Medical Dictionary, © 2009 Farlex and Partners