Definition

A type of protein that is made by certain white blood cells and helps to regulate immune responses in the body.

Example

Monokines play a crucial role in the immune system by signaling other cells to respond to infections.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a monokine?

No, what is that?

It's a type of cytokine made by monocytes; they play a role in the immune response.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know about that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Monokine → It is formed from "mono-" (from Greek "monos", meaning single or alone) and "kine" (from Greek "kinein", meaning to move). The word "monokine" refers to a type of cytokine that is produced by a single type of cell, thus indicating a singular source of movement or action in the immune response.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mono-' meaning 'single' and 'kine' relating to 'movement' — this helps you remember that a monokine is a signal produced by a single type of cell.

Visually Confused Words