Articles tagged with Interferons
A new study has shown that a simeprevir-based therapy is as effective as the standard of care in treating chronic Hepatitis C virus infection, with fewer adverse events. The study found that simeprevir was well-tolerated and could be a viable alternative for patients who cannot access or afford newer treatment options.
The Weizmann Institute of Science has developed a novel, highly active interferon variant called YNSalpha8. PASylation technology extended its half-life in the body, resulting in improved protection from disease progression in a mouse model of human multiple sclerosis.
Researchers found that treating inmates with sofosbuvir is cost-effective compared to other treatments approved by the FDA. The study suggests that the treatment can add up to 2.1 quality-adjusted life years and save healthcare programs from paying out more in the future.
A new Review article explores the potential to target IL-27-activated mechanisms in diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease. The cytokine's dual anti-inflammatory and proinflammatory activities suggest it could be a significant determinant of inflammatory responses.
The article highlights the role of pattern recognition receptors in regulating immune responses and their potential as novel targets for developing potent new therapies. The JAK/STAT signaling network also plays a crucial role in disease pathogenesis, and targeting these networks may lead to improved treatments for various diseases.
New research suggests that long non-coding RNAs play a crucial role in regulating the human immune system's response to infection. The study reveals how these molecules can promote, fine-tune, and restrain the body's inflammatory response by controlling gene expression.
A new study found that people with asthma have a similar immune response to respiratory viruses as those without asthma, suggesting another aspect of the immune system is at play. The researchers compared the key immune response to viruses in the lungs and breathing passages, finding no significant differences.
Researchers explore the link between gut microbiome and autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis, highlighting potential therapeutic targets. The study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in immune cell activity and cytokine production, which may impact susceptibility to and treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Research by Weizmann Institute scientists found that suppressing interferon activity can have devastating consequences in fighting HIV infection. The study revealed that a short period of blocked interferon activity can lead to permanent damage and disease progression.
Researchers have identified a gene linked to STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI), a devastating autoinflammatory condition. Repurposed drugs, such as tofacitinib and ruxolitinib, show therapeutic potential in laboratory studies and are currently being studied in children with the disease.
The review explores how RNA viruses induce Type I and III interferons, which regulate virus replication and host survival. Different types of interferons have distinct antiviral properties, playing a critical role in maintaining an optimum equilibrium between virus replication and host survival.
Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai found that mammals do not use RNAi to fight viruses, contrary to previous studies. Instead, they use microRNAs, which are part of a different defense system based on interferons, signaling proteins made by immune cells.
Researchers at UBC have discovered a key enzyme, MMP12, that plays a crucial role in deploying the antiviral protein Interferon alpha. The team has developed a new drug that blocks this enzyme, keeping Interferon alpha levels high and boosting the immune system's response to viral infections.
Researchers found that a new version of an old MS drug reduced patient relapses and lesion development by 36% compared to placebo. The updated formulation allowed for longer injection intervals, potentially increasing compliance and quality of life for MS patients.
A clinical trial found that low-dose oral interferon-alpha can prevent hepatitis C virus (HCV) relapse in patients with mild liver fibrosis. The study's results are significant for the optimal use of IFN in HCV treatment.
Researchers have characterised the binding of IFNβ proteins to cells, providing a breakthrough in understanding immune response mechanisms. This study offers new avenues for developing treatments with reduced side effects and improved effectiveness.
A team of researchers has identified an enzyme called cGAS that detects cytosolic DNA, triggering the innate immune response. This discovery has significant clinical implications for understanding autoimmune diseases and developing new therapies.
A study found no correlation between interleukin 17F levels and treatment response to interferon beta-1b therapy in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The study concludes that using immune-based biomarker signatures may help identify response markers.
A recent review article highlights the complex mechanisms underlying viral dsRNA sensing in animals, insects, and plants. Novel components of these antiviral recognition systems contribute to their effectiveness in protecting hosts against viral infection.
A new study published in NEJM finds that sofosbuvir achieves a response rate of 93% for genotype 2 and 61% for genotype 3 patients. This represents a significant improvement over traditional interferon-based treatments, which often have limited efficacy in these patient populations.
Researchers propose strategies to enhance the therapeutic effects of interferon in cancer treatment. They explore mechanisms of interferon signaling that lead to tumor cell death and suggest directions for future research, such as alternative methods of delivering interferon-activated immune cells.
Researchers deciphered previously unknown properties of transmitted HIV-1 viruses, revealing they are highly infectious and contain more envelope protein. The findings provide new insights into the biology of viral/host dynamics and may inform vaccine design.
Researchers identified MECP2 duplication syndrome as a cause of recurrent infections and neurological problems in infant boys. The study found that excess MeCP2 protein suppressed gamma interferon production, leading to partial immunodeficiency. This deficiency made it difficult for the immune system to fight off certain infections, su...
A growing body of literature suggests that alterations in regulatory T cell function may contribute to the development of sepsis. Manipulating these cells may offer a promising approach to treating patients with septic shock. The Journal of Interferon & Cytokine Research reviews the current understanding of this complex immune response.
A comparative medicine study by Penn vet scientists identifies a new strategy for enhancing the effects of interferon in fighting off infection. The research suggests that targeting a particular molecule, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 B (PTP1B), can boost the activity of a person's own interferon.
A monoclonal antibody called alemtuzumab shows promise in reducing MS disease activity, with nearly half as many relapses as a common current treatment. The drug also appears to improve disability outlook, particularly in refractory patients who have not responded to previous treatments.
A new MS drug, alemtuzumab, has been shown to significantly reduce the number of attacks and disease activity in patients who have already failed to respond to other treatments. The study also found that alemtuzumab improved disability outcomes, with most patients experiencing an improvement in their condition.
Phase III trials have reported promising results for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma, with pazopanib and temsirolimus emerging as effective options. Pazopanib was shown to be non-inferior to sunitinib in controlling metastatic renal cell carcinoma, resulting in fewer troublesome side effects and improved quality of life.
Scientists have reduced graft-versus-host disease, a life-threatening complication of stem cell transplants, by altering the circulation and trafficking of donor T-cells. The new approach maintains the therapeutic anti-leukemia effect while minimizing harm to healthy tissues.
A review article highlights the role of interleukin-18 (IL-18) in inflammation and its potential as a therapeutic target for pulmonary inflammatory diseases. Therapies blocking IL-18 activity may offer effective treatment options for conditions like bronchial asthma and COPD.
A study found that interferon beta treatment did not slow disease progression in patients with relapsing-remitting MS. The researchers compared patients treated with interferon beta to those without treatment, but did not find a significant difference in disability progression.
Researchers at Lawson Health Research Institute have identified a novel mechanism that allows adenovirus to evade the immune system's interferon response. The study found that the virus blocks the formation of an enzyme necessary for this process, leading to increased gene transcription and cell division.
Researchers from A*STAR identified the molecular switch Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) that triggers innate immunity and activates potent virus killers, enabling effective responses to dengue and influenza viruses. The discovery paves the way for developing anti-viral drugs targeting BTK.
Early treatment with interferon beta-1a significantly reduced the likelihood of progression to clinically definite multiple sclerosis (MS) in a three-year clinical trial. Those who received the drug soon after their first signs of possible MS were less likely to be diagnosed with MS than those who switched from placebo.
Recent clinical trials confirm that combinations of antivirals can provide a more effective treatment with fewer side effects. The new therapies target genotypes 1, 2, or 3 and include direct-acting antivirals and host-targeting antivirals.
A randomized controlled trial found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation had no beneficial effects on disease activity in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The study included 92 patients who received either omega-3 fatty acids or a placebo for six months, followed by interferon beta treatment for another 18 months.
A clinical trial shows that interferon-alpha can control HIV replication in patients who stop antiretroviral therapy, reducing integrated HIV DNA levels and decreasing reservoirs. The study provides hope for a functional cure and opens the way to further research on HIV eradication.
A study of patients infected with both HIV and hepatitis shows how interferon boosts the human body's natural immunity to fight the virus. The drug, once used to alleviate symptoms, works by mediating the action of restriction factors that combat HIV.
A combination treatment of telaprevir with pegylated interferon and ribavirin showed substantial improvement in sustained viral response among African Americans, with an SVR rate of 61% compared to 25% with standard care. Screening for Hepatitis C during routine colon cancer screening is also being explored, particularly among Baby Boo...
A special issue of Journal of Interferon & Cytokine Research explores the complex role of cytokines in autoimmune diseases. Key findings include cytokine pathways that trigger cardiac inflammation and potential chemical markers for predicting autoimmune reactions.
A novel molecular mechanism discovered by Bruce Beutler and colleagues suggests that the body's molecular sensors may trigger autoimmune disease. The researchers' findings have important implications for understanding the initiation of both protective and inflammatory immune responses, as well as autoimmune diseases.
Professor Hilton's receipt of the award recognises his research into how cytokines signal between cells, including the discovery of many molecules involved in this process. He has made significant contributions to our understanding of cytokine biology and its applications in cancer, infectious diseases, and autoimmune conditions.
A study published in Journal of Interferon & Cytokine Research found that Tyk2 protein helps suppress breast tumor growth and metastasis. Mice with normal Tyk2 expression were less susceptible to breast cancer, suggesting boosting Tyk2 activity may be beneficial for treating the disease.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that approximately two-thirds of patients with hepatitis C can be cured in six months, rather than the standard 48-week treatment. The study showed that response-guided therapy is a successful strategy for individualizing treatment based on patient responses.
Chinese researchers have found that oral chicken interferon-alpha can significantly reduce influenza virus levels when given either preventively or therapeutically. This could be a convenient and inexpensive method for protecting neighboring uninfected birds from infection.
In a Phase IIb study of 526 treatment-naive hepatitis C patients, PEG-Interferon lambda achieved higher rates of rapid virologic response and complete early virologic response compared to PEG-Interferon alfa. The study also showed fewer flu-like symptoms and cytopenias in the PEG-Interferon lambda arms.
Researchers have discovered a new function of interferons, which inhibit the production of IL-1beta protein and suppress inflammation. This finding has significant implications for treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Researchers found that interferon blocks the development of immune cells causing asthma, providing proof-of-principle for a potential therapy. The protein targets the transcription factor regulating Th2 cell function, potentially stopping asthma-causing chemicals from being released.
Researchers found that gamma interferon prompts the activation of hematopoietic stem cells, which produce immune system cells to combat infections. Chronic infections like tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS may lead to bone marrow exhaustion due to sustained activity by these stem cells.
Scientists from University of Southampton and Synairgen Research Ltd begin Phase II study on interferon beta for virus-triggered asthma exacerbations. The drug aims to prevent sudden deterioration in lung function and hospital admissions.
Researchers found daclizumab, a monoclonal antibody, can reduce new lesion formation in relapsing multiple sclerosis compared to standard interferon beta treatment. The study suggests expanding regulatory CD56bright natural killer cells may play a key role in daclizumab's effects.
A new study published in The Lancet found that combination therapy does not improve overall or progression-free survival compared to single therapy for renal cell carcinoma. However, the combined regimen may still benefit a small number of patients by producing long remissions.
Researchers found a family of naturally occurring antiviral agents in human cells that protected against most virus particles, including influenza A strains and West Nile virus. The proteins, called IFITM, worked by preventing the virus from attaching to cells, offering potential new ways to prevent and treat viral infections.
A study of 499 patients with multiple sclerosis found that those using Avonex experienced significantly fewer injection site reactions, skin necrosis, and lipoatrophy than those on other interferon therapies. Additionally, more patients remained on Avonex over the one-year trial period.
A Phase II trial shows that a low dose of oral interferon alpha preserves beta cell function in patients with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes, delaying the need for insulin. The study found significant improvement in preserving insulin-producing beta cell function compared to placebo, offering hope for managing the disease.
A large randomized controlled trial found that interferon gamma-1b does not improve survival in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The study of 826 patients with mild-to-moderate lung function impairment showed no benefit from the treatment, but more side effects were observed.
A new combination therapy of daily consensus interferon and ribavirin has been found to be effective in some hepatitis C patients who have not responded to previous treatment. The study, led by a Saint Louis University researcher, showed a success rate of above 30 percent for patients with less severe liver damage.
A new combination therapy of daily consensus interferon and ribavirin is effective for some people with chronic hepatitis C, particularly those with lower fibrosis scores. Nearly half of all HCV patients do not respond to standard therapy, and this treatment shows promise as an alternative.
A new study suggests that adding a steroid drug to multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment can significantly reduce disease activity. Researchers found that participants who received both the steroid and interferon beta-1a had 38% fewer relapses than those receiving only the interferon drug.
A new study found that adding oral methylprednisolone to interferon beta-1a therapy significantly reduces the relapse rate in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The treatment was associated with a threefold lower relapse rate compared to placebo.