Potentiation of interferon activity by mixed preparations of fibroblast and immune interferon

Abstract

Mixed preparations of fibroblast and immune interferons interacted with [mouse] cells synergistically to cause development of a much greater level of protection [against Mengovirus infection] than expected on the basis of their separate activities. This increased level of protection was 5- to 20-fold greater than expected on the basis of a simple additive effect of the interferons. The potentiating factor co-purified with fibroblast interferon and immune interferon as they were partially purified. The potentiation was not an artifact of more rapid development of immune interferon-induced antiviral resistance in the presence of fibroblast interferon. Fibroblast and immune interferons may mutally potentiate each other. They may have different modes of action.