Targeting interferons in multiple sclerosis

Since interferon (IFN)-β was first approved for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) in 1993 in the United States, the indication expanded to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) and clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). Supported by the evidence of efficacy derived from many clinical trials, IFN-β became an established agent. In this review, we summarize current knowledge about the putative mechanism of therapeutic effects of IFN-β and pivotal trials so far performed and discuss directions of MS therapy.