interferon alfa + celecoxib

Interferon alfa + celecoxib is a combination therapy investigated primarily for the treatment and prevention of recurrence in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Developed and studied extensively by researchers at Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, this regimen combines the pleiotropic effects of interferon alfa (IFN-α)—including direct antiproliferative activity, anti-angiogenesis, and enhancement of the innate and adaptive immune systems—with the selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitory action of celecoxib. COX-2 is frequently upregulated in HCC and is associated with chronic inflammation, tumor invasion, and poor prognosis. By inhibiting COX-2, celecoxib reduces prostaglandin E2 levels, which can otherwise promote tumor cell survival and suppress immune surveillance. Clinical studies, particularly in the adjuvant setting following liver resection, have aimed to determine if this combination can synergistically reduce the high rates of post-operative recurrence in HCC patients, especially those with underlying hepatitis B infection.

Other names

IFN-alpha + Celecoxibinterferon-alpha + celecoxib