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PEGylated α interferons: two different strategies to achieve increased efficacy

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PEGylated Protein Drugs: Basic Science and Clinical Applications

Part of the book series: Milestones in Drug Therapy ((MDT))

Abstract

Conjugation of poly(ethylene glycol) to proteins is a well known technique used to prolong half-life and reduce immunogenicity. In the case of interferon α, improving pharmacokinetics to reduce dosing frequency was the driving force in the development of two long-acting derivatives: PEG-Intron® by Schering-Plough and Pegasys® by Roche Pharmaceuticals. These conjugates, even though developed with a similar approach and for the same clinical use, present several differences that offer the possibility for an interesting and unique comparison. The basic PEGylation chemistry and characterization of the conjugates will be described together with an analysis of the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic behaviors.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padua, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131, Padua, Italy

    Gianfranco Pasut

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  1. Gianfranco Pasut
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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131, Padova, Italy

    Francesco M. Veronese

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Pasut, G. (2009). PEGylated α interferons: two different strategies to achieve increased efficacy. In: Veronese, F.M. (eds) PEGylated Protein Drugs: Basic Science and Clinical Applications. Milestones in Drug Therapy. Birkhäuser Basel. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7643-8679-5_12

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