Interleukin-1 beta is an irradiation-induced stromal growth factor.

Gamma irradiation of tissues and organs leads to many pathological consequences due to the formation of reactive oxygen species, DNA damage and the subsequent massive death of cells. The therapeutic use of gamma irradiation in the treatment of cancer is based on its penetrating power and damaging effects on tumor cells. Other effects from the irradiation are unnoticeable in comparison.