Biological properties of mouse interferon bound to a high molecular weight carrier: Blue Dextran 2000.

Mouse C-243 cell interferon (IF) binds to Blue Dextran 2000 (BD). The BD-IF complex could be precipitated by polyethylene glycol. When 0.05 to 0.2 per cent solutions of BD were used for binding IF, the recovery of IF activity in the sediment was complete. The BD-IF complex was shown to have high antiviral activity, it was stable for months at 4 degrees C but it was inactivated by heating at 37 degrees, 56 degrees and 65 degrees C as native IF. The rate of clearance of IF bound to BD from the mouse peritoneal cavity was found to be significantly slower than that of native IF. The BD-IF complex was highly immunogenic for rabbits and sheep. Furthermore, the BD-IF complex was neutralized to a greater extent by specific antibodies than native IF.