Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Tumor Treating Field Therapy in Combination with Bevacizumab for the Treatment of Recurrent Glioblastoma
Published on: October 27, 2014
Natalizumab (Tysabri) treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis
1Department of Neurology, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Medicine, Maryland Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA. kjohnson@som.umaryland.edu
Background:
Natalizumab (Tysabri), a humanized monoclonal antibody which binds to the alpha4beta1 integrins of leukocytes, blocks attachment to cerebral endothelial cells, thus reducing inflammation at the blood-brain barrier. Two pivotal randomized trials, 1 comparing active treatment to placebo and 1 comparing active treatment to placebo in relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) patients receiving intramuscular interferon beta1alpha (Avonex), demonstrated significant efficacy for relapse control, decrease in sustained disability, and reduced numbers of new lesions on MRI.
Review Summary:
Because of safety issues raised by the appearance of 2 cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in MS patients exposed to natalizumab for relapsing MS treatment has been restricted. This review briefly outlines the inflammatory nature of MS plagues, the mechanism of action of natalizumab and the pathogenesis of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. The mandatory guidelines for natalizumab use in the treatment of MS with natalizumab are explained. Special concerns facing the therapist electing to prescribe natalizumab are mentioned.
Conclusion:
Natalizumab recently joined glatiramer acetate and beta interferon as an approved therapy for controlling relapsing MS. Unresolved safety issues currently restrict its use to monotherapy in patients who have had inadequate response to the other immunomodulating agents.
Related Concept Videos
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Biologic Agents: Anti-TNF
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Disease
Myasthenia Gravis: Overview and Treatment
These antibodies interfere with the function of the nicotinic receptors in three ways: by binding to the receptor and disrupting acetylcholine binding; by causing cross-linking of receptors which leads...
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Immunomodulatory Agents
Antiepileptic Drugs: Potassium Channel Activators
Ezogabine has gained approval as an adjunctive treatment...
Treatment Resistent Cancers
