Effects of SA237, a humanized anti-interleukin-6 receptor monoclonal antibody, on pre- and postnatal development in cynomolgus monkey

IL-6 and IL-8: An Overview of Their Roles in Healthy and Pathological Pregnancies

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an acknowledged inflammatory cytokine with a pleiotropic action, mediating innate and adaptive immunity and multiple physiological processes, including protective and regenerative ones. IL-8 is a pro-inflammatory CXC chemokine with a primary function in attracting and activating neutrophils, but also implicated in a variety of other cellular processes. These two ILs are abundantly expressed at the feto-maternal interface over the course of a pregnancy and have been shown to participate in numerous pregnancy-related events. In this review, we summarize the literature data regarding their role in healthy and pathological pregnancies. The general information related to IL-6 and IL-8 functions is followed by an overview of their overall expression in cycling endometrium and at the feto-maternal interface. Further, we provide an overview of their involvement in pregnancy establishment and parturition. Finally, the implication of IL-6 and IL-8 in pregnancy-associated pathological conditions, such as pregnancy loss, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus and infection/inflammation is discussed.

Monoclonal Antibody Engineering and Design to Modulate FcRn Activities: A Comprehensive Review

Understanding the biological mechanisms underlying the pH-dependent nature of FcRn binding, as well as the various factors influencing the affinity to FcRn, was concurrent with the arrival of the first recombinant IgG monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and IgG Fc-fusion proteins in clinical practice. IgG Fc–FcRn became a central subject of interest for the development of these drugs for the comfort of patients and good clinical responses. In this review, we describe (i) mAb mutations close to and outside the FcRn binding site, increasing the affinity for FcRn at acidic pH and leading to enhanced mAb half-life and biodistribution, and (ii) mAb mutations increasing the affinity for FcRn at acidic and neutral pH, blocking FcRn binding and resulting, in vivo, in endogenous IgG degradation. Mutations modifying FcRn binding are discussed in association with pH-dependent modulation of antigen binding and (iii) anti-FcRn mAbs, two of the latest innovations in anti-FcRn mAbs leading to endogenous IgG depletion. We discuss the pharmacological effects, the biological consequences, and advantages of targeting IgG–FcRn interactions and their application in human therapeutics.

Targeting IL-6 receptor in the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum: a review of emerging treatment options

Introduction: Recent research has shown that IL-6 receptor (IL-6 R) inhibitors like tocilizumab and satralizumab are effective in reducing the relapse rate in patients with NMOSD.Areas covered: This review article explores current concepts in NMOSD management and focuses on IL-6 R as a therapeutic target. The authors delve into the biological and immunological role of IL-6 in the pathogenesis of NMOSD. Further, the authors summarize the most recent findings on the use of anti-IL-6 R monoclonal antibodies, tocilizumab and satralizumab, in the treatment of NMOSD.Expert opinion: A better understanding of the role of cytokines in NMOSD may provide the neurologist with novel therapies for this disease. IL-6 R appears to be a central hub to NMOSD pathogenesis and a relevant therapeutic target.