Interferons (IFNs) are a family of mammalian cytokines produced by macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells and other somatic cells in response to viruses and pathogens. IFN Beta is classified as a type I IFN and is produced by fibroblast and a variety of cell types in response to viral challenge. Although all type I IFNs bind to the same type I IFN receptor complex, studies have shown that IFN Beta signals differently than IFN Alpha. Furthermore, it has been shown that IFN Beta exerts preferential induction of apoptotic effect on melanoma cells. These findings, along with the therapeutic use of IFN Beta in Multiple Sclerosis and hepatitis C, make further understanding of IFN Beta biological activities an important area of research. 

The mammalian expressed mouse IFN Beta protein is designed to provide scientists with a highly active recombinant protein that closely resembles native mouse IFN Beta.