Tetherin
Tetherin
Tetherin (pronounced: teh-th-er-in), also known as BST-2 or CD317, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the BST2 gene. It is an antiviral restriction factor, which means it is part of the immune system's response to viral infections.
Etymology
The term "Tetherin" is derived from the word "tether," which means to tie or bind something in place. This is a reference to the protein's function, which involves "tethering" or holding newly formed virus particles at the surface of cells, preventing them from spreading to other cells.
Function
Tetherin is a type of protein that is found in many different types of cells in the body, including immune cells. It plays a crucial role in the body's defense against viral infections. When a cell is infected with a virus, Tetherin can prevent the virus from leaving the cell and infecting other cells. It does this by binding to the virus and holding it at the surface of the cell, hence the name "Tetherin".
Related Terms
- BST2 gene: The gene that encodes the Tetherin protein.
- Antiviral restriction factor: A type of protein, like Tetherin, that helps to defend the body against viral infections.
- Protein: A type of molecule that performs a wide range of functions in the body.
- Immune cells: Cells that are part of the immune system and help to defend the body against infections.
- Viral infections: Infections caused by viruses.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tetherin
- Wikipedia's article - Tetherin
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