What are interferons? How do they help in controlling the disease?

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Text Solution

**Step 1: Definition of Interferons**
Interferons are proteinaceous defensive molecules produced by cells that have been infected by viruses. They are a type of cytokine, which are signaling proteins that play a crucial role in the immune response.

**Step 2: Source of Interferons**
These proteins are secreted by virus-infected animal cells. When a cell gets infected by a virus, it responds by producing interferons to alert neighboring cells about the viral presence.

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