Cytokines as Biomarkers of Treatment Response to IFN β in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Background . MS patients show a remarkable heterogeneity in their response to disease modifying treatments. Given the need for early treatment initiation and the diversity of available options, a predictive marker that indicates good or poor response to treatment is highly desirable. Objective . To find a biomarker for treatment response to IFN β among pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Materials and Methods . IFN- γ , TNF- α , IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, and TGF- β 1 levels were measured in serum and CSF of 43 patients with RR-MS who were followed up for a mean period of 5.3 years. Thirty-five patients received IFN β treatment and were divided into good responders (GR, n = 19) and poor responders (PR, n = 16). The remaining 8 patients showed a very favorable outcome and remained untreated (noRx). Results . GR had significantly higher serum baseline levels of IL-17A than PR and significantly higher serum levels of IL-17A, IFN- γ , TNF- α , and IL-2 than noRx. PR had significantly higher IFN- γ serum levels than noRx. No significant differences were observed in serum levels of IL-6, IL-4, IL-10, and TGF- β 1 or the levels of all cytokines measured in CSF between the 3 groups of patients. Conclusions . Baseline serum levels of IL-17A can be used as a biomarker of IFN β treatment response.