interferon beta

Interferon beta is a naturally occurring cytokine in the Type I interferon family, widely utilized as a disease-modifying therapy for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It is available in several recombinant forms, including interferon beta-1a (e.g., Avonex, Rebif) and interferon beta-1b (e.g., Betaseron, Extavia), which differ in their glycosylation patterns and production methods (mammalian vs. bacterial cells). The drug functions by binding to the Type I interferon receptor (IFNAR), triggering a signaling cascade that modulates the immune response by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibiting T-cell activation, and decreasing the permeability of the blood-brain barrier to inflammatory cells. Beyond MS, interferon beta has been investigated in oncology, including gene therapy approaches (such as BG00001) for pleural malignancies, where it aims to induce anti-tumor immune responses and apoptosis.

Brand names

AvonexRebifBetaseronExtaviaPlegridy

Other names

Interferon-betaInterferon beta-1aInterferon beta-1bPeginterferon beta-1a