Role of cytokines and their blocking in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases
Matikainen, S.; Jokiranta, S.; Eklund, K.K.
Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja 132(4): 349-354
2016
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-7183 PMID: 27017787 Document Number: 686108
Rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases and psoriasis are examples of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. They involve activation of a partly similar cytokine network that has an essential role in the disease pathogenesis. Biological drugs have been developed for the inhibition of single cytokines, and good therapeutic responses have been achieved by using them. For instance, TNF blockers are used in the treatment of several inflammatory diseases. The use of the blockers of certain other cytokines is more limited. Other important target molecules include certain interleukins. New bispecific antibodies enabling inhibition of the action of two distinct cytokines are currently undergoing clinical studies.