The Effect of Inhaled IFN-β on Worsening of Asthma Symptoms Caused by Viral Infections. A Randomized Trial

• DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201312-2235oc
• Publication Date: 2014-06-17T16:58:59Z
• Authors: Ratko Djukanović; Tim Harrison; Sebastian L. John...; Flic Gabbay; Peter Wark; Neil C. Thomson; Robert Niven; Dave Singh; Helen K. Reddel; Donna E. Davies; Richard Marsden; Christine Boxall; Sarah Dudley; Vincent Plagnol; Stephen T. Holgate; Phillip Monk
• Keywords: Rhinovirus; Clinical endpoint; Wheeze; Common cold

Ex vivo, bronchial epithelial cells from people with asthma are more susceptible to rhinovirus infection caused by deficient induction of the antiviral protein, IFN-β. Exogenous IFN-β restores activity.To compare efficacy and safety inhaled placebo administered after onset cold symptoms prevent or attenuate respiratory viruses.A total 147 on corticosteroids (British Thoracic Society Steps 2-5), a history virus-associated exacerbations, were randomized 14-day treatment (n = 72) 75) within 24 hours developing assessed clinically, relevant samples collected assess virus responses.A 91% patients developed defined cold. In this modified intention-to-treat population, did not get clinically significantly worse (mean change in six-item Asthma Control Questionnaire <0.5) had no significant effect primary endpoint, although it enhanced morning peak expiratory flow recovery (P 0.033), reduced need for additional treatment, boosted innate immunity as blood sputum biomarkers. an exploratory analysis subset difficult-to-treat, Step 4-5 27 IFN-β; n 31 placebo), Questionnaire-6 increased placebo; was prevented 0.004).Although trial meet its suggests that is potential virus-induced deteriorations difficult-to-treat supports further, adequately powered, trials population. Clinical registered www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 01126177).