Anti-cytokine therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus.
In the course of the disease, a wide variety of cytokines is dysregulated, many of which likely influence systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) autoimmunity and/or lupus tissue inflammation. Proinflammatory cytokines in particular, such as TNF, IL-6, IL-18 or IFN-gamma, may play a major role in propagating the inflammatory processes responsible for tissue damage. These cytokines are overexpressed both systemically and locally, and preliminary results from open-label trials and/or animal studies suggest potential benefits of blocking either of these inflammatory mediators. Since new therapeutic agents may soon offer many ways to influence the process, controlled clinical trials following open-label safety studies are of central importance to arrive at optimized therapies for SLE patients.
Smolen
J S
JS
Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
Steiner
G
G
Aringer
M
M
D016207:Cytokines / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology*
D016207:Cytokines; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents