interferon-alpha

Interferon-alpha is a type I interferon and biologic cytokine that functions as a potent immunomodulator. In the ACTME trial (NCT03638375) conducted by Leiden University Medical Center, it is investigated as a supportive therapy for patients with metastatic melanoma who are refractory to standard treatments. The regimen involves combining low-dose interferon-alpha (administered either as daily subcutaneous injections or as a weekly pegylated formulation) with tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) adoptive cell therapy and the anti-PD-1 antibody nivolumab. Interferon-alpha enhances the anti-tumor immune response by upregulating MHC class I expression on tumor cells, promoting the maturation of dendritic cells, and supporting the activation and persistence of the infused TILs. Clinical data from the Leiden University study indicated that the addition of interferon-alpha significantly improved disease control rates in this difficult-to-treat patient population.

Brand names

Roferon-AIntron A

Other names

interferon-alpha-Leiden University-melanomaIFN-alphapegylated interferon-alphaPEG-IFN-alphalow-dose interferon-alpha