IFN-α: A key therapeutic target for multiple autoimmune rheumatic diseases

Abstract

Interferon (IFN)-α has emerged as a major therapeutic target for several autoimmune rheumatic diseases. In this review, we focus on clinical and preclinical advances in anti-IFN-α treatments in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS), systemic sclerosis (SSc), and dermatomyositis (DM), for which a high medical need persists. Promising achievements were obtained following direct IFN-α neutralization, targeting its production through the cytosolic nucleic acid sensor pathways or by blocking its downstream effects through the type I IFN receptor. We further focus on molecular profiling and data integration approaches as crucial steps to select patients most likely to benefit from anti-IFN-α therapies within a precision medicine approach.

Keywords: Autoimmune rheumatic diseases; Dermatomyositis; Interferon gene signature; Interferon-alpha; Precision medicine; Primary Sjögren syndrome; Systemic lupus erythematosus; Systemic sclerosis; Therapy; Treatment.