Related Experiment Video

Updated: Apr 21, 2026

Transfer of Manipulated Tumor-associated Neutrophils into Tumor-Bearing Mice to Study their Angiogenic Potential In Vivo
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Transfer of Manipulated Tumor-associated Neutrophils into Tumor-Bearing Mice to Study their Angiogenic Potential In Vivo

Published on: July 20, 2019

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Role of interferon-alpha in patients with neuroendocrine tumors: a retrospective study

Eitan Mirvis1, Dalvinder Mandair1, Jorge Garcia-Hernandez1

  • 1Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Royal Free Hospital, London, U.K.

Anticancer Research
|November 5, 2014
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Interferon alpha (IFNα) showed efficacy in treating neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), with a median progression-free survival of 25 months. IFNα may be a viable option for specific NET patient groups.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Interferon alpha (IFNα) is underutilized for neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) due to toxicity concerns and perceived limited efficacy.
  • Current NET treatments include somatostatin analogues, targeted agents, chemotherapy, and radionuclide therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To retrospectively analyze the efficacy and safety of Interferon alpha (IFNα) in patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs).

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with NETs from a dedicated database.
  • Assessment of radiological, biochemical, and symptomatic responses to IFNα treatment.
  • Recording of progression-free survival (PFS), adverse events, and toxicities.

Main Results:

  • Thirty-five patients received IFNα treatment, with a median PFS of 25 months.
  • 25 patients (71%) achieved at least three months of stable disease.
  • One complete response (3%) and one partial response were observed; 23% withdrew early due to toxicity.

Conclusions:

  • IFNα demonstrated acceptable tolerability and efficacy in this NET patient cohort.
  • IFNα may be beneficial for small-volume diffuse NETs, somatostatin analogue-resistant cases, or as a bridge therapy.
Keywords:
Interferon-alphaneuroendocrine tumours

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