IFN- β 1a Modulates the Expression of CTLA-4 and CD28 Splice Variants in Human Mononuclear Cells: Induction of Soluble Isoforms

Abstract

Recently, mRNA encoding soluble isoforms of CD28 and CTLA-4 have been described in human lymphocytes. We demonstrate that interferon-β1a (IFN-β1a) can enhance the expression of these transcripts in human mononuclear cells. Because soluble CD28 and CTLA-4 molecules might affect T cell activation, our findings suggest an additional means whereby IFN-β therapy might exert its immunomodulatory effects in multiple sclerosis (MS).