ovine interferon tau

Ovine interferon tau (IFN-tau) is a recombinant Type I interferon originally identified as the signal for maternal recognition of pregnancy in ruminants. Unlike other Type I interferons such as IFN-alpha and IFN-beta, IFN-tau is characterized by its remarkably low systemic toxicity and its unique oral bioavailability. It exerts its therapeutic effects by binding to the Type I interferon receptor (IFNAR) on the intestinal mucosa, which triggers an immunomodulatory signaling cascade. This process leads to the induction of anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 and the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IFN-gamma. PEPGEN Corporation developed a recombinant version (roIFN-tau) and investigated it in Phase II clinical trials as an oral treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), aiming to provide a safer and more convenient alternative to injectable interferon therapies.

Other names

ovine IFN-taurecombinant ovine interferon-tau