Interferon induction site: poly IC on solid substrate carriers.

The complex of polyinosinate with polycytidylate (poly IC) has been attached to solid carriers which can be suspended in the medium over the cell monolayer; it has also been attached to surfaces which may be overgrown by the cell monolayer. Interferon production and antivirus protection achieved by these inducer systems were measured and it was found that such anchored poly IC conveyed antivirus protection. However, in all systems studied, some release of polynucleotide from the carrier was observed and thus the results do not prove that mere contact of inducer with the external membrane is sufficient for induction of interferon.