Pharmacogenomics of interferon-β in multiple sclerosis: what has been accomplished and how can we ensure future progress?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system, often resulting in significant disability in early adulthood. The field of pharmacogenomics holds promise in distinguishing responders from non-responders to drug treatment. Most studies on genetic polymorphisms in MS have addressed treatment with interferon-β, yet few findings have been replicated. This review outlines the barriers that currently hinder the validity, reproducibility, and inter-study comparison of pharmacogenomics research as it relates to the use of interferon-β. Notably, statistical power, varying definitions of responder status, varying assay and genotyping methodologies, and anti-interferon-β neutralizing antibodies significantly confound existing data. Future work should focus on addressing these factors in order to optimize interferon-β treatment outcomes in MS.