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filgrastim

biology
Also known as: G-CSF, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor

Quick Summary

Filgrastim, also known as granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), is a type of colony-stimulating factor (CSF). CSFs are naturally occurring proteins that regulate the formation and development of blood cells. Specifically, G-CSF stimulates the production of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting bacterial infections.12

Medical applications of filgrastim include preventing infection in patients with low white blood cell counts due to chemotherapy. It also helps mobilize stem cells into the bloodstream, which can then be collected for bone marrow transplants. CSFs are part of a larger group of molecules called cytokines, which facilitate communication within the immune system.12

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