IFN-α-2 in Sjogren's

[EPguy]

This report came up on the Sjo forum. It's a large multi-center study. The top broad message is type 1 interferon alpha (IFN-α-2) levels are of particular interest in Sjo sub-types and prognostics. This is the exact one we take. HigherIFN-α-2 levels are negative prognostically. They suggest measuring this, along with other factors, for better trial design and prognostics. This is endogenous IFN-α-2 (synthesized by the body) vs recombinant medicine (PEG, Bes) although they are supposed to be identical.

This may explain the peculiar connection of the recombinant α-2 IFN we use to Sjo, as opposed to other autoimmunes, as seen in infrequent but regular posts here and as a "common" adverse event found in the Bes trial as I've posted.

May be for some pts the extra IFN α-2 goes to the wrong places. Another reminder to stay aware of any emergent indicators of risk.

acrjournals.onlinelibrary.w...

I had access to the full report but can't find it now.

[hunter5582]

Very interesting finding. It makes good intuitive sense to wonder about the implications if this regarding INF α-2 used as treatment and risk of autoimmune AEs. I think your situation is an example of how important it is to pay attention to what your body is telling you. Ignoring warning signs is never a good idea.

[EPguy in reply to hunter5582]

You can see another member's response today to my two year anniv.

I sincerely wish the maker of Plegridy (IFN-B) would start an MPN trial. I've posted regularly on it, a report that lays background for the MPN case, and its lack of a black box label.

Endogenous IFN in recent years is well known as a pathway in Sjo and others. But the report here is large and more specific to the IFN type used for MPNs. The other IFNs are in the picture but -a2 keeps showing as the one of most interest.

My (way too simple) guess is certain pts have a "wrong pipe" or are prone to creating one, and sending all that IFN-a2 at it causes the pipe to activate for Sjo or other A-I's. In this simple example for me the botched vax created that pipe. But infection and many other things, or nothing at all, can also do that.

One reason the "common" occurrence in the Bes trial didn't get the attention it should is Sjo is still considered a nuisance disease by lay and pro alike. This is quickly changing fortunately.