Combinatorial FTY720/IFNb induces protective factors in astrocytes

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system with various disease courses. Fingolimod (FTY720) and Interferon beta (IFNb) are two individual therapies approved for Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) in which the patient experiences reversible neurological deficits. Analagons to FTY720, such as Siponimod, have additionally obtained approval from the FDA and EMA as a treatment option for Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS), in which the neurological deficits progressively increase without subsequent amelioration. We have now shown an additive effect when combining FTY720 with IFNb in a preclinical model of MS, most likely due to the different modes of action. However, the exact mechanism behind this additive effect remains unclear. In this study we investigated how the combinatorial treatment of FTY720 and IFNb effects the gene expression profile of murine astrocytes.