Effect of recombinant human interferon α B/D (rHu-IFN-α B/D) in combination with acyclovir in experimental HSV-1 encephalitis

The efficacy of recombinant human interferon alpha B/D in experimental HSV-1 encephalitis was investigated in the murine system. Recombinant Hu-IFN-alpha B/D significantly reduced the mortality in a mouse encephalitis model (about 30%, P = 0.021), whereas natural mouse interferon was inactive. Combination of acyclovir with Hu-IFN-alpha B/D had an additive effect.