Interferon beta -1b directly modulates human neural stem/progenitor cell fate

• Published in: Brain research 2011-09, Vol.1413, p.1-8
• Main Authors: Arscott, WTristram, Soltys, John, Knight, Julia, Mao-Draayer, Yang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0006-8993
• DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2011.07.037

Interferon beta (IFN- beta ) is a mainline treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS); however its exact mechanism of action is not completely understood. IFN- beta is known as an immunomodulator; although recent evidence suggests that IFN- beta may also act directly on neural stem/progenitor cells (NPCs) in the central nervous system (CNS). NPCs can differentiate into all neural lineage cells, which could contribute to the remyelination and repair of MS lesions. Understanding how IFN- beta influences NPC physiology is critical to develop more specific therapies that can better assist this repair process. In this study, we investigated the effects of IFN beta -1b (Betaseron registered ) on human NPCs in vitro (hNPCs). Our data demonstrate a dose-dependent response of hNPCs to IFN beta -1b treatment via sustained proliferation and differentiation. Furthermore, we offer insight into the signaling pathways involved in these mechanisms. Overall, this study shows a direct effect of IFN beta -1b on hNPCs and highlights the need to further understand how current MS treatments can modulate endogenous NPC populations within the CNS.