Has antiviral, antibacterial and anticancer activities. Monomer. Signals mostly via binding to a IFNAR1-IFNAR2 heterodimeric receptor, but can also function with IFNAR1 alone and independently of Jak-STAT pathways. Available under the names Avonex (Biogen), Betaseron (Berlex) and Rebif (Serono). Used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Betaseron is a slightly modified form of IFNB1 with two residue substitutions. Belongs to the alpha/beta interferon family. Clinical information on Avonex Clinical information on Betaseron