beta interferon

How does Interferon-beta work ?

The mechanisms by which IFNs exert their effects are not completely understood. However, in most cases they act by affecting the induction or transcription of certain genes, thus affecting the immune system. In vitro studies have shown that IFNs are capable of inducing or suppressing about 20 gene products

IFN-beta may act by three major pathways in MS:

regulation of T-cell functions such as activation, proliferation and suppressor cell function;

modulation of the production of cytokines: down-regulation of proinflammatory cytokines and up-regulation of inhibitory, antiinflammatory cytokines;

regulation of T-cell migration and infiltration into the CNS via the BBB (blood brain barrier).

PRISMS

Interferon beta-1a has been evaluated in the largest, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis to date. This is the PRISMS (Prevention of Relapses and Disability by Interferon beta-1a Subcutaneously in Multiple Sclerosis) study, which involved 560 patients in three continents and collected 1094 patient-years of data. PRISMS included patients who were impaired (Expanded Disability Status Scale score of 0-3.5) and truly disabled (Expanded Disability Status Scale score of > 3.5). Patients were randomized into 3 groups (placebo, 22 mcg, 44 mcg) and drug was administered 3 times/week by subcutaneous injection.

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Future products

Tumor necrosis factor binding protein receptor

Within the framework of pre-clinical development, Ares-Serono is studying the therapeutic potential of recombinant tumor necrosis factor binding protein (r-hTBP-1). This protein acts by neutralizing tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a cytokine which can aggravate the disease state when secreted in excessive amounts in patients suffering from autoimmune diseases, malignant diseases or in septic shock. Recombinant hTBP-1 could therefore prove to be useful in the treatment of a variety of diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, cachexia (wasting), inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease), and multiple sclerosis.