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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
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High-throughput Quantitative Real-time RT-PCR Assay for Determining Expression Profiles of Types I and III Interferon Subtypes
Published on: March 24, 2015
[Interferon-beta treatment for multiple sclerosis and predictors of response]
Tatsuo Kohriyama1, Kazuhide Ochi, Masayasu Matsumoto
1Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine
|June 11, 2008
Summary
Interferon-beta (IFNbeta) is a key treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS), effectively managing relapses and progression. However, its efficacy can be reduced by neutralizing antibodies and it may be detrimental in certain NMO/OSMS patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
Context:
- Interferon-beta (IFNbeta) is a primary disease-modifying therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Clinical trials confirm its efficacy in reducing relapses and slowing progression in relapsing-remitting MS.
- Its effectiveness is comparable in opticospinal MS (OSMS) and conventional MS in Japanese populations.
Purpose:
- To review the efficacy and limitations of Interferon-beta (IFNbeta) in multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment.
- To highlight the impact of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) on IFNbeta therapy.
- To identify patient subgroups, such as those with NMO/OSMS and anti-aquaporin-4 (APQ4) antibodies, where IFNbeta may be ineffective or harmful.
Summary:
- IFNbeta effectively reduces relapses in secondary progressive MS and may modestly slow disability progression.
- Treatment of clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) with IFNbeta delays conversion to clinically definite MS.
- Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) can diminish IFNbeta's clinical efficacy, necessitating monitoring in progressing patients.
- IFNbeta may be ineffective or detrimental in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO)/OSMS, particularly those with anti-aquaporin-4 (APQ4) antibodies or extensive spinal cord lesions (LESCLs).
- Measurement of anti-APQ4 antibodies is recommended for NMO/OSMS patients with LESCLs or those with collagen disease before considering IFNbeta treatment.
Impact:
- IFNbeta remains a cornerstone therapy for MS, but careful patient selection and monitoring are crucial.
- Understanding antibody development and specific disease subtypes improves therapeutic outcomes.
- Identifying non-responders or those at risk of adverse effects allows for timely alternative treatment strategies.
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