title: [IL-6 inhibitors prevent bone loss and cartilage degeneration in rheumatoid arthritis].
abstract: Dysregulation of cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), is involved in joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The concentration of IL-6 is increased not only in the affected joints but also in the serum. Locally, IL-6 provides the formation of pannus through the synthesis of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In addition, IL-6 contributes to the production of matrix metalloproteinases which digest collagen and proteoglycan of cartilage. Furthermore, IL-6 induces the differentiation and activation of osteoclasts. IL-6 can be delivered systemically to a similar extent as hormones, may induce systemic osteoporosis. Tocilizumab (TCZ), a humanized anti-IL-6 receptor antibody, inhibiting IL-6 signaling, has provided beneficial outcomes, such as achievement of clinical remission, protective effects against bone and cartilage destruction. Because of the beneficial outcomes, new drugs inhibiting IL-6 signaling are developed, and the clinical trials are ongoing.
authors.affiliation: Department of Molecular Regulation for Intractable Diseases,Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Japan.Osaka Rheumatology Clinic, Japan.
authors.forename: Miho
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Murakami
authors.affiliation: Department of Molecular Regulation for Intractable Diseases,Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Japan.Osaka Rheumatology Clinic, Japan.
authors.forename: Norihiro
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Nishimoto
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D018501:Antirheumatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy*; D015519:Bone Density / Q000187:drug effects*; D002356:Cartilage / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D012038:Regeneration; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000187:drug effects; D000093242:Interleukin-6 Inhibitors
chemical_list: D018501:Antirheumatic Agents; D000093242:Interleukin-6 Inhibitors