Pegylated Interferon-Lambda for Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection

In a phase Ib study, PEG-IFN-λ showed promise in both treatment-naive and relapsing patients.

The cornerstone for treating patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is pegylated interferon alfa (PEG-IFN-α) plus ribavirin. However, adverse effects can reduce quality of life, lead to dose reductions, and even prompt discontinuation of therapy, with potential consequences for efficacy. Interferon-λ1, also known as interleukin-29, has shown in vitro antiviral activity similar to that of PEG-IFN-α. Unlike the widely distributed IFN-α receptors, expression of the IFN-λ1 receptor is more restricted, suggesting that a treatment that targets IFN-λ1 might be less prone to cause adverse effects.

In an industry-funded, open-label phase-Ib study, investigators tested the efficacy of PEG-IFN-λ in HCV genotype 1–infected patients. Twenty-four…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors