Mechanism of action of interferon beta in treatment of multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Interferon beta (INFβ) is a therapeutic immunomodulatory agent, widely used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). The biological roles of INFβ and its mechanisms of action in MS are complex, multifactorial, and incompletely understood, but this chapter attempts to clarify the newest mechanisms of action of INFβ. INFβ suppresses inflammatory responses through different mechanisms in MS patients, including controlling the secretion of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines, suppressing T cell activation, inducing differentiation of neural stem cells to oligodendrocytes which results in repair of damaged nerve cells, preventing the migration of activated immune cells through the blood-brain barrier, and some other mechanisms. Scientists have move toward new fields of study including individualized personalized medicine, and roles of micro RNA and vitamin D in MS patients who receive INFβ treatment. In summary, new advances in understanding of INFβ mechanisms of action will be mainly crucial and will in turn aid progression in MS management. © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.