peginterferon beta-1b

Peginterferon beta-1b (also known as BAY 86-5046) is a long-acting, polymer-conjugated form of recombinant interferon beta-1b developed for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Developed by Mountain View Pharmaceuticals and Duke University using their proprietary PEGylation technology, the molecule consists of interferon beta-1b covalently linked to polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains. This modification was intended to enhance the protein's stability, reduce its immunogenicity, and significantly extend its circulating half-life, thereby allowing for a less frequent dosing schedule (e.g., once every two weeks) compared to the every-other-day regimen required for standard interferon beta-1b (Betaseron/Betaferon). Like its non-pegylated parent, it functions as an agonist of the type I interferon receptor (IFNAR), triggering a signaling cascade that modulates the expression of MHC antigens and various cytokines, ultimately reducing the inflammatory response and the frequency of clinical exacerbations in MS patients. Although the program was licensed to Schering AG (now Bayer), clinical development was discontinued in 2011 during Phase 2/3 trials.

Other names

PEG-IFN-betaPEGylated interferon-betaPEGylated interferon beta-1bLong-Acting Interferon-beta