Interleukin-17 (IL-17) Inhibitors in Plaque Psoriasis Treatment
Interleukin-17, one of the T-helper 1 (Th17) subtypes had been reported to be a significant trigger for plaque psoriasis however the specific contribution of each cytokine group still remains questionable.
Interleukin-17, one of the T-helper 1 (Th17) subtypes had been reported to be a significant trigger for plaque psoriasis however the specific contribution of each cytokine group still remains questionable.
IL-17 has been noted; however, to act on keratinocytes to produce antimicrobial peptides and chemokines to attract other inflammatory cells.
Both Th1/Th17 cells and their related cytokines have been identified in increased levels within lesional psoriatic skin in several studies. However, outcomes regarding the serum concentration of Th17-related cytokines in psoriasis patients are controversial given that in some studies they were found significantly increased while in others they were not
Researchers from the Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Aristotle University Medical School, Thessaloniki, Greece, examined the specific role IL-17 played in plaque psoriasis pathogenesis — questioning the pros and cons of potential IL-17 inhibition.
The study was published in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery.
The team measured interleukin (IL)-1β, 6, 8, 17Α, 22, and 23’s serum levels and the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) with flow cytometry in 35 patients afflicted with plaque psoriasis (21 with stable and 14 with active disease) and in 20 healthy controls.
Interleukin-6, 8, 17A, 22, 23, and TNFα were significantly elevated in psoriasis patients compared to the placebo group. Sensitivity analyses indicated patients with active disease showed significantly increased levels of IL-17A, IL-23, and IL-22 compared with the group of patients with stable psoriasis.
The study ultimately underscored the vital role of IL-17A, IL-22, and IL-23 in the early stages of psoriasis activity.
The authors concluded, “The efficacy and safety results from Phase 2 and 3 trials with monoclonal antibodies targeting IL-17RA (brodalumab), and IL-17A (ixekizumab and secukinumab) validate IL-17 as an effective therapeutic target for the treatment of plaque psoriasis.”
