Not available outside of the UK & Ireland.

Analysis Note

The biological activity is determined in the cytopathic effect inhibition assay using rat epithelial-like (RATEC) cells with vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). The cytopathic effect of 50% is produced with approximately 1 unit/ml interferon. Since there is no international rat interferon β standard, units are determined with respect to the NIH international standard reference for mouse interferon α/β.

Biochem/physiol Actions

Cytokine with anti-viral, anti-proliferative, immunoregulatory, and proinflammatory activities.

Interferon β belongs to the type 1 interferon family pf proteins. It is also needed for the inhibition of tumor cell growth via cell death, S-phase increase and mediating differentiation. It is also important for bone homeostasis.

Physical form

Lyophilized from phosphate buffered saline (PBS) containing 125 mM trehalose.