Natalizumab therapy for multiple sclerosis.

ABSTRACT: The treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis has witnessed major progress since the first effective disease modifying treatment, ß-interferon, became available in 1993. One of the most remarkable new treatments has been natalizumab. This review describes the evolution of this humanized anti-α4ß1 monoclonal antibody, from preclinical experimental research through proof-of-concept (phase 1/2) and pivotal (phase 3) clinical trials to the now extensive experience of its use in clinical practice. The future potential and challenges of natalizumab and oral therapies with a similar mechanism of action are also discussed.

SUBMITTER: Chataway J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3557363 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature