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Stohl W, Wu Y, Stohl M. T cell Dissimilarities in B Cell Activating Factor-Deficient Versus B Cell Activating Factor Receptor 3-Deficient Systemic Lupus Erythematosus-Prone NZM 2328 Mice as Contributors to Their Divergent Clinical Outcomes. ACR Open Rheumatol 2024. [PMID: 39143363 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We assessed the contributions of B cell and T cell subsets to the disparate clinical outcomes in NZM.Baff-/- and NZM.Br3-/- mice. METHODS We assessed in NZM wild-type, NZM.Baff-/-, and NZM.Br3-/- mice numbers and percentages of B cells and subsets, T cells and subsets, and in vivo proliferation and survival of forkhead box P3 (Foxp3)+ cells by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Relationships between percentages of Foxp3+ cells and numbers of CD19+ and CD4+ cells were assessed by linear regressions. RESULTS In each age and sex cohort, percentages and numbers of CD19+ cells were similar in NZM.Baff-/- and NZM.Br3-/- mice. Percentages of CD3+ and CD4+ cells were greater in NZM.Br3-/- than in NZM.Baff-/- mice, with the CD4 to CD3 cell ratios being greater in NZM.Br3-/- than in NZM.Baff-/- mice and percentages of Foxp3+ cells in NZM.Br3-/- mice being lower than in NZM.Baff-/- mice. Percentages of Foxp3+ cells correlated positively with CD19+ cells in NZM.Baff-/- mice but negatively in NZM.Br3-/- mice. In vivo proliferation and survival of Foxp3+ cells were lower in NZM.Baff-/- mice than in NZM.Br3-/- mice. CONCLUSION Differences between NZM.Baff-/- and NZM.Br3-/- mice in Foxp3+ cells and their relationships with CD19+ cells may have more to do with their divergent clinical outcomes than do differences in numbers of B cells. These unexpected findings suggest that B cell activating factor (BAFF)-B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) or BAFF-Transmembrane activator and calcium-modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI) interactions may help drive development of clinical systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) even under conditions of considerable B cell depletion. Insufficient blocking of BAFF-BCMA and BAFF-TACI interactions may lie at the heart of incomplete clinical response to BAFF-targeting agents in human SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Stohl
- University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles
| | - Ying Wu
- University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles
| | - Malka Stohl
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City
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Fan L, Tang Z, He X, He X, Zhang Z, Juliao P. Real-world effectiveness of belimumab in patients with lupus in China: RELIABLE observational cohort study protocol. Lupus Sci Med 2024; 11:e001144. [PMID: 38991834 PMCID: PMC11243130 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2024-001144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The efficacy of belimumab in SLE has been demonstrated in randomised clinical trials, and its real-world effectiveness has been shown in studies in several countries. While belimumab was approved for treating SLE in China in 2019, data on its benefit in clinical practice are limited. This study will evaluate belimumab's effectiveness in China, using practical clinical measures, such as Lupus Low Disease Activity State (LLDAS), to add to the body of real-world evidence. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The Real-world Effectiveness of beLImumAB in patients with systemic Lupus Erythematosus in China (RELIABLE) is an ambidirectional, observational descriptive cohort study across approximately 15 centres in China. Adults with SLE newly initiating belimumab with ≥1 measure of all five LLDAS components (SLE Disease Activity Index-2000; no new lupus disease activity; Physician Global Assessment; prednisolone-equivalent dose; immunosuppressants/biologics use) in the 3 months preceding belimumab initiation (index date) will be eligible and retrospectively and/or prospectively enrolled, depending on data availability. The retrospective follow-up will be ≤6 months, and retrospective and prospective patients will have a maximum 24-month follow-up. The primary objectives will be to describe the proportion of patients achieving LLDAS at 12 and 24 months post-index. The key secondary objective will be to describe the proportion of patients achieving LLDAS and each component at 3, 6, 9 and 18 months post-index. All data will be analysed descriptively; a statistical estimand will be applied to account for intercurrent events expected in a real-world setting. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study will comply with all applicable laws regarding patient privacy; institutional review board approval will be obtained before the study commencement. CONCLUSIONS This study will evaluate belimumab's effectiveness in patients with SLE initiating belimumab in clinical practice in China. Using LLDAS will provide clinicians with valuable insights into the impact of belimumab on the treat-to-target strategy with a relevant measure that can be repeated across the clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Zhuoli Zhang
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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Askanase AD, Furie RA, Dall'Era M, Bomback AS, Schwarting A, Zhao MH, Bruce IN, Khamashta M, Rubin B, Carroll A, Daniels M, Levy RA, van Vollenhoven R, Urowitz MB. Disease-modifying therapies in systemic lupus erythematosus for extrarenal manifestations. Lupus Sci Med 2024; 11:e001124. [PMID: 38777595 PMCID: PMC11116871 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2023-001124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Our 2022 published working definition of disease modification in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was 'minimising disease activity with the fewest treatment-associated toxicities and slowing or preventing organ damage progression'. The objective of this review was to classify current SLE treatments according to the proposed non-renal disease modification criteria excluding toxicities. Based on a review of select clinical trial (n=32) and observational study (n=54) publications for 14 SLE medications across different therapeutic classes, and the authors' clinical experience, we evaluated disease modification potential as per the proposed framework at three time points. Specific criteria used to determine disease modification potential included a drug's capacity to reduce: (1) non-renal disease activity, (2) severe flares, (3) use of steroids/immunosuppressants and (4) organ damage accrual. Criteria 1-3 were assessed at 1 year and 2-5 years and, when positive, were considered evidence for disease modification potential; criterion 4 was used to confirm disease modification at >5 years. Each treatment received one of four mutually exclusive designations at each time point: (a) criterion met, (b) indications of criterion met despite insufficient evidence in the literature, (c) inconclusive and (d) no available supportive data. This review excludes an assessment of potential toxicities. Eight of the 14 SLE treatments met ≥1 disease modification criteria up to year 5. Hydroxychloroquine improved overall survival at >5 years, suggesting long-term disease modification, but no data on specific organ systems were reported. Belimumab was the only treatment to meet all criteria. Belimumab and hydroxychloroquine met disease modification definitions across three time points. Evidence for other SLE therapies was incomplete, particularly at >5 years. Future studies are warranted for other treatments to meet the disease modification criteria. We discuss challenges to classification and possible updates to our published criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca D Askanase
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Richard A Furie
- Division of Rheumatology, Northwell Health, Great Neck, New York, USA
| | - Maria Dall'Era
- Division of Rheumatology, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Andrew S Bomback
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andreas Schwarting
- Rheumatology Center Rhineland Palatinate, Bad Kreuznach, Germany
- University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ming-Hui Zhao
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ian N Bruce
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Bernie Rubin
- US Medical Affairs, GSK, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Angela Carroll
- US Medical Affairs, GSK, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Roger Abramino Levy
- Specialty Care, Global Medical Affairs, GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ronald van Vollenhoven
- Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center and Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Murray B Urowitz
- Professor Emeritus, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Lee YJ, Ahn SM, Hong S, Oh JS, Lee CK, Yoo B, Kim YG. Effect of belimumab in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with low dose or no corticosteroids. Korean J Intern Med 2024; 39:338-346. [PMID: 38031366 PMCID: PMC10918380 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2023.229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) responder index (SRI)-4 response has been achieved with belimumab treatment in patients with moderate disease activity in cornerstone clinical trials and following studies. However, most studies involved patients treated with a mean prednisolone-equivalent dose of approximately 10 mg/d and focused on the steroid-sparing effect of belimumab. We aimed to identify the effect of belimumab in patients with mild-to-moderate SLE who were treated with low-dose or no corticosteroids. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of patients treated with belimumab for at least 6 months between May 2021 and June 2022. The primary endpoint was SRI-4 response at 6 months. RESULTS Thirty-one patients were included (13 low dose- and 18 steroid non-users). The mean age was 39.2 ± 11.4 years, and 90.3% of patients were female. The baseline Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment-Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SELENA-SLEDAI) score was 6.0 (4.0-9.0). The primary endpoint was achieved in 32.3% (10/31) of patients. Significant improvements in anemia, C4 levels, and SELENA-SLEDAI score were observed during treatment. Univariate analysis showed that the baseline SELENA-SLEDAI and arthritis were significantly associated with SRI-4 response at 6 months, and only the SELENA-SLEDAI remained significant (p = 0.014) in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION This cohort study is the first to report the efficacy of belimumab after minimizing the effect of corticosteroids. Belimumab showed efficacy in improving the SELENA-SLEDAI score, anemia, and low C4 in patients who did not receive corticosteroids or received only low doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeo-Jin Lee
- Department of Rheumatology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soo Min Ahn
- Department of Rheumatology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seokchan Hong
- Department of Rheumatology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Seon Oh
- Department of Information Medicine, Big Data Research Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang-Keun Lee
- Department of Rheumatology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bin Yoo
- Department of Rheumatology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Gil Kim
- Department of Rheumatology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Yoshijima C, Suzuki Y, Oda A, Tanaka R, Ono H, Itoh H, Ohno K. Usefulness of Belimumab in Adult Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Evaluated Using Single Indexes: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review. CURRENT THERAPEUTIC RESEARCH 2024; 100:100738. [PMID: 38516027 PMCID: PMC10955281 DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Background Belimumab is the first antibody drug approved for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and is a fully human monoclonal antibody that inhibits soluble B lymphocyte stimulator protein. In clinical trials, a composite index was used to assess efficacy of belimumab. However, clinical guidelines on SLE treatment currently use single efficacy indexes. Objective The main objective of this study was to perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of belimumab utilizing single indexes used in routine clinical practice, rather than the composite efficacy index used in clinical trials during the development phase. As a secondary endpoint, safety was also evaluated. Methods Several databases were searched to identify reports published up to December 1, 2021 on randomized controlled trials examining the efficacy of belimumab in adult patients with SLE. From the clinical trial data, efficacy was evaluated using single indexes including the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), British Isles Lupus Assessment Group Index, and Physician Global Assessment. Safety was also assessed. Data were synthesized and analyzed using Review Manager 5.4. This study protocol was registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (Registration number: UMIN000052846). Results The search identified 12 reports that met the inclusion criteria. Five reports were included in efficacy evaluation and 9 in safety evaluation. The primary endpoint was SLEDAI. Significantly more belimumab-treated patients achieved a ≥4-point reduction in SLEDAI (relative risk 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-1.40; P < 0.00001) compared with placebo. Other efficacy endpoints were also improved significantly in the belimumab group. No difference in safety was found between belimumab and placebo. Conclusions The present meta-analysis evaluating clinical trial data using various single indexes recommended by clinical guidelines for SLE verifies that addition of belimumab to standard of care is efficacious for moderate-to-severe SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chisato Yoshijima
- Department of Medication Use Analysis and Clinical Research, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Suzuki
- Department of Medication Use Analysis and Clinical Research, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayako Oda
- Department of Medication Use Analysis and Clinical Research, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryota Tanaka
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Oita University Hospital, Yufu, Oita, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ono
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Oita University Hospital, Yufu, Oita, Japan
| | - Hiroki Itoh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Oita University Hospital, Yufu, Oita, Japan
| | - Keiko Ohno
- Department of Medication Use Analysis and Clinical Research, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
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Worley K, Milligan S, Rubin B. Steroid-sparing effect of belimumab: results from a retrospective observational study of real-world data. Lupus Sci Med 2023; 10:e001024. [PMID: 38135455 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2023-001024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Comparison of oral corticosteroid (OCS) use in patients with SLE in a US rheumatology network pre- and post-belimumab initiation. METHODS This retrospective cohort study (GSK Study 214140) used data from the Patient-Important Outcomes Data Repository (PIONEER)-Rheumatology database. Eligible adults with SLE initiated belimumab between 1 January 2012 and 30 June 2021, and had available data for >180 days pre- and >360 days post-belimumab initiation. The index was the date of belimumab initiation. Changes in OCS use were measured by: proportion of patients receiving OCS; mean total OCS dose/patient; mean total number of OCS days supplied/patient; mean daily OCS dose for days supplied/patient; the proportion of patients with OCS doses of ≤5 mg/day and ≤7.5 mg/day for days supplied. These changes were assessed between period (P)1 (6 months pre-index) and P2 (first 6 months post-index) and P3 (second 6 months post-index) in patients with OCS use in P1 who persisted with belimumab at each assessed period. RESULTS Overall, 608 patients received belimumab for 180 days (full analysis set (FAS)) and 492 for 360 days. Most patients were female (92.8%); 70.4% had moderate SLE. In P1, 56.3% of FAS patients and 54.5% of patients who persisted with belimumab for 360 days received OCS.Among patients receiving OCS in P1, significantly fewer patients received OCS in P2 (78.4%) and P3 (64.9%) vs P1 (100.0%). Significant reductions from P1 were observed in P2 and P3 in the mean total OCS dose/patient, the mean OCS daily dose for days supplied and the proportions of patients with OCS dose of ≤5 mg/day and ≤7.5 mg/day, and the mean total OCS days supplied/patient in P3 only. CONCLUSIONS This analysis showed significant reductions in OCS dose and use in patients with SLE who persisted with belimumab, providing more real-world evidence for belimumab's steroid-sparing effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Worley
- GSK, Value, Evidence & Outcomes, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Bernard Rubin
- US Medical Affairs and Immuno-inflammation, GSK, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Nakai T, Fukui S, Sawada H, Ikada Y, Tamaki H, Kishimoto M, Okada M. Disease-modifying effect and long-term safety of belimumab in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A single-center retrospective study. Lupus 2023; 32:1518-1527. [PMID: 37858981 DOI: 10.1177/09612033231208845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disease modification in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is important for minimizing disease activity while limiting treatment-associated toxicities. Belimumab can be used as a remission-induction/maintenance systemic lupus erythematosus therapy; however, its disease-modifying effects are unclear. We aimed to determine these effects in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. METHODS This single-center retrospective cohort study included 92 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with belimumab. We analyzed the changes in flare free rate/lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) attainment rate/glucocorticoid dosage/Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics and American College of Rheumatology damage index (SDI) score/drug retention rate after treatment initiation. RESULTS Fifty-two weeks after initiating belimumab, the flare rate decreased from 82.6% to 14.1% (p < .01). Until week 52 and 1000 days after initiating belimumab treatment, > 70% and ∼90% of the patients attained lupus low disease activity state, respectively. Belimumab treatment significantly reduced glucocorticoid demand (initiation day, 8.88 (6.00-15.00) mg/d; week 52, 5.00 (2.00-7.00) mg/d; final day of the study period, 3.00 (0.46-6.06) mg/d, initiation day vs. week 52: p < .01, initiation day vs. final day: p < .01); at the end of the study period, 68.5% of patients required ≤5 mg/d prednisolone, and 22.8% discontinued glucocorticoids. Most patients were SDI progression-free (week 52, ∼95%; day 1000, ∼90%), and belimumab showed a high drug retention rate (week 52, 90%; day 1000 > 80%). CONCLUSION Most patients experienced lupus low disease activity state, reduced flare rate and glucocorticoid demand, and a stable SDI trend after belimumab treatment initiation. Given its efficacy and retention rate, belimumab treatment may serve as a fundamental strategy in disease modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Nakai
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sho Fukui
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology, St Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Emergency and General Medicine, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Haruki Sawada
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Medicine, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Yukihiko Ikada
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Tamaki
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsumasa Kishimoto
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masato Okada
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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Cortés-Hernández J, Marras Fernández-Cid C, Andreu Sánchez JL, Calvo Alén J, García-Aparicio AM, Díez Álvarez E, Hidalgo Bermejo FJ, Coronell C, Perna A, Ordi Ros J. Reduction of disease activity, corticosteroids use, and healthcare resource utilisation in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with belimumab in clinical practice settings: OBSErve Spain multicentre study. REUMATOLOGIA CLINICA 2023; 19:312-318. [PMID: 37286267 DOI: 10.1016/j.reumae.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES This OBSErve Spain study, a part of the international OBSErve programme, evaluated belimumab real-world use and effectiveness following 6 months of treatment in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in clinical practice in Spain. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this retrospective, observational study (GSK Study 200883), eligible patients with SLE receiving intravenous belimumab (10mg/kg) had their disease activity (physician assessed), SELENA-SLEDAI scores, corticosteroid use, and healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU), assessed after 6 months of treatment versus index (belimumab initiation) or 6 months pre-index. RESULTS Overall, 64 patients initiated belimumab, mainly due to ineffectiveness of previous treatments (78.1%) and to reduce corticosteroid use (57.8%). Following 6 months of treatment, 73.4% of patients achieved ≥20% overall clinical improvement, while only 3.1% of patients worsened. Mean (standard deviation, SD) SELENA-SLEDAI score decreased from 10.1 (6.2) at index to 4.5 (3.7) 6 months post-index. HCRU decreased from 6 months pre-index to 6 months post-index, with fewer hospitalisations (10.9% vs 4.7% patients) and ER visits (23.4% vs 9.4% patients). Mean (SD) corticosteroid dose decreased from 14.5 (12.5)mg/day at index to 6.4 (5.1)mg/day 6 months post-index. CONCLUSIONS Patients with SLE receiving belimumab for 6 months in real-world clinical practice in Spain experienced clinical improvements and a reduction in HCRU and corticosteroid dose.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jaime Calvo Alén
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Universitario de Araba, Vitoria, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Carlos Coronell
- Primary Care Medical Center of Vallirana, Barcelona, Spain, formerly Medical Department, GSK, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Josep Ordi Ros
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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Bell CF, Chung J, Rubin B. Real-World Clinical Outcomes in Belimumab-Treated US African American and Hispanic Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Retrospective, Observational Study. Rheumatol Ther 2023; 10:447-462. [PMID: 36652052 PMCID: PMC10011356 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-022-00524-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This analysis aims to describe real-world clinical outcomes in US African American and Hispanic patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) receiving belimumab. METHODS In this post hoc analysis of OBSErve US (GSK Study 117,295) data, patients received intravenous belimumab (10 mg/kg) over 24 months. Outcomes assessed every 6 months after belimumab initiation (index) included: physician-assessed overall clinical response (worse, no improvement, < 20%, 20-49%, 50-79%, ≥ 80% improvement), physician-assessed disease severity (mild, moderate, severe), oral corticosteroid (OCS) use and healthcare resource utilization (HCRU). RESULTS Of 501 patients enrolled, 123 and 88 were African American and Hispanic respectively; 69 (56.1%) and 43 (48.8%) were receiving belimumab at 24 months. Of those, 88.4%/95.3% (African American/Hispanic) were female; mean (standard deviation [SD]) age was 41.6 (12.5)/42.2 (10.5) years. Within 6 months post-index, 91.3%/90.7% of patients still receiving belimumab had a ≥ 20% physician-assessed clinical improvement. Among 24 months completers, proportions of patients with severe SLE fell from 34.8%/25.6% at index to 2.9%/4.7% at Month 6 and 2.9%/0% at Month 24. The proportion of patients receiving OCS and mean (SD) daily OCS dose also decreased, from 82.6%/81.4% and 19.7 (12.8)/18.8 (10.0) mg/day at index to 50.7%/34.9% and 3.1 (3.2)/1.6 (2.4) mg/day at Month 24. Fewer patients were hospitalized or required ancillary care services at 18-24 months post-index versus 6 months pre-index. CONCLUSION Belimumab treatment for up to 2 years improved clinical outcomes, disease severity, mean OCS dose and HCRU in US African American and Hispanic patients with SLE, providing real-world evidence for enduring belimumab effectiveness in populations that are markedly impacted by SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher F Bell
- US Value Evidence and Outcomes, GSK, 410 Blackwell Street, Durham, NC, 27701, USA.
| | - Jake Chung
- Specialty Care, Global Medical Affairs, GSK, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bernard Rubin
- US Medical Affairs, Immuno-Inflammation, GSK, Durham, NC, USA
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Stohl W, Kwok A. Belimumab for the treatment of pediatric patients with lupus nephritis. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:243-251. [PMID: 36750049 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2178297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The FDA approved the anti-BAFF monoclonal antibody, belimumab, in 2011 for adult systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), in 2019 for pediatric SLE, in 2020 for adult lupus nephritis (LN), and in 2022 for pediatric LN. AREAS COVERED We performed a PUBMED database search through November 2022, using 'belimumab and lupus nephritis,' 'belimumab and childhood systemic lupus erythematosus,' 'belimumab and pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus,' and 'belimumab and juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus' as the search phrases. We also vetted pertinent references cited in the papers gleaned from the above search, and we drew from our personal literature collections. EXPERT OPINION Based on clinical-trials and real-world experience, belimumab is useful and safe in adult SLE and LN. In contrast and despite FDA approval, evidence of effectiveness in pediatric SLE and pediatric LN is very limited. Whereas there was a trend favoring belimumab in the only randomized, controlled trial to date in pediatric SLE, the difference between the belimumab and placebo groups failed to achieve statistical significance. Moreover, there have been no randomized, controlled trials for belimumab in pediatric LN. Based largely on information gleaned from experience in adults, the clinician can cautiously prescribe belimumab to his/her pediatric LN patient and hope for benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Stohl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alyssa Kwok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Ghalandari N, Crijns HJMJ, Dolhain RJEM, Hazes JMW, van Puijenbroek EP. Dilemma of belimumab therapy (dis)continuation during pregnancy: Results of a retrospective study in eudravigilance. Lupus 2023; 32:189-197. [PMID: 36448410 PMCID: PMC9939929 DOI: 10.1177/09612033221143286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The first biologic authorized for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) up to this date, belimumab, is currently not recommended for use during pregnancy due to lack of data. Provided that the health of the child begins with the health of the mother, pregnant patients face the dilemma of cessation or continuation of belimumab. If belimumab is stopped, there will be a risk of SLE flare and its consequences for the mother and the foetus. Continuation is also not optimal because of the lack of knowledge on safety for use during pregnancy. AIM To compare the reported foetal outcomes in SLE patients who stopped scheduled belimumab within the first trimester (group A) and those who continued scheduled belimumab during the first trimester or thereafter (group B). MATERIAL AND METHOD All belimumab-exposed pregnancy-related reports were extracted from the EudraVigilance (EV) database until March 11th, 2021. After case review, repeated cases, uninformative reports, non-medical elective abortions and foetal chromosomal abnormalities were excluded. Included pregnancies were divided into two groups (group A and B, as described above). Foetal outcomes were divided into live birth or foetal death (due to miscarriage or stillbirth) and were compared between both groups. Furthermore, neonatal outcomes, such as reporting rates of preterm birth, low birth weight and major congenital malformations were compared. RESULTS No statistical difference in foetal death was observed between group A and B (reported numbers (%) = 32 (46.4) and 11 (52.4), respectively). Odds ratio (OR, [95% Confidence Intervals (CIs)]) of foetal death in group B compared to group A was 1.27 [0.48, 3.32]. Reporting rates of preterm birth and low birth weight were higher - though not statistically different - in group A. CONCLUSION The positive results of our study are supportive for the continuation of belimumab during pregnancy. Since the analysis is based on spontaneous reports/retrospective data, additional studies are needed to confirm the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nafise Ghalandari
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,Medicines Evaluation Board (MEB), Utrecht, The Netherlands,Academic Center of Inflammunity, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,Nafise Ghalandari, Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Postbus 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Radboud JEM Dolhain
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,Academic Center of Inflammunity, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna MW Hazes
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,Academic Center of Inflammunity, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eugene P van Puijenbroek
- Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, ‘s Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands,Unit of Pharmacotherapy, -Epidemiology & -Economics, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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12
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Gomez A, Enman Y, Parodis I. Impact of Belimumab on Patient-Reported Outcomes in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Insights from Clinical Trials and Real-World Evidence. Patient Relat Outcome Meas 2023; 14:1-13. [PMID: 36699199 PMCID: PMC9869695 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s369584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, autoimmune disease, characterised by a relapsing-remitting pattern of inflammatory activity, with each relapse contributing to irreversible end-organ damage with detrimental effects on patients' course, adding up to morbidity burden and shortening life-length. Along with several other demographic, socioeconomic, and life-style factors, high inflammatory activity and accrued organ damage have been coupled with adverse health-related quality of life (HRQoL) within physical, mental, and psychosocial aspects. The management of SLE has improved substantially during the last decades, owing to a technological explosion that has advanced drug development towards more targeted options. Being the first drug to be approved for SLE in more than half a century and the first in history biological agent for SLE, the introduction in 2011 of the monoclonal antibody belimumab that specifically binds to the soluble counterpart of B cell activating factor (BAFF) was a breakthrough in SLE drug development. The efficacy and favourable safety profile of belimumab has been demonstrated across several clinical trials and observational studies. Herein, we reviewed the literature and provide a summary on the effects of belimumab on SLE patients' HRQoL based on 23 studies. Belimumab has been shown to induce clinically important improvements in physical aspects of HRQoL and in fatigue, the latter being a common and major complaint within the SLE population. People with SLE overall benefit more from belimumab within physical compared with mental aspects of HRQoL. However, despite improvements of clinical and immunological features upon therapy with belimumab, HRQoL perception remains unsatisfactory for a substantial percentage of the patients. Finally, our review made apparent an urgent need for optimisation of the use of patient-reported outcome measures, both in research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Gomez
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yvonne Enman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ioannis Parodis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden,Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden,Correspondence: Ioannis Parodis, Division of Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden, Tel +46722321322, Email
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13
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Gomez A, Parodis I. Do biological agents improve health-related quality of life in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus? Results from a systematic search of the literature. Autoimmun Rev 2022; 21:103188. [PMID: 36089249 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Despite an unprecedented rise in the number of biological therapies developed for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during the last decades, most randomised clinical trials (RCTs) have failed to reach their primary efficacy endpoint. These endpoints mainly constitute composite outcomes that encompass disease activity indices derived from clinician-reported and laboratory data and do not necessarily reflect the patient perspective, as symptoms that represent major concerns to patients, such as fatigue, are seldom part of the evaluation. To overcome this limitation, patient-reported outcomes (PROs) constitute useful tools for evaluating the effect of an intervention on facets that are particularly relevant for the patients. In the present review, we performed a systematic literature search aiming to examine the effect of biological therapies on SLE patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and fatigue in RCT and real-life settings. We summarised results concerning 14 different biological agents, the majority of which targeting B cells or type I interferons, and discuss strategies that have been used to analyse HRQoL data, putting emphasis on minimal clinically important differences and the potential use of PROs as distinct targets in treat-to-target approaches. Lastly, we discuss differences between generic and disease-specific PRO measures and highlight the need of using a combination thereof aiming to capture the patient perspective in a comprehensive manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Gomez
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ioannis Parodis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden.
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14
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Real-World Effectiveness of Belimumab in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Systematic Literature Review. Rheumatol Ther 2022; 9:975-991. [PMID: 35596922 PMCID: PMC9314515 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-022-00454-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Belimumab is a recombinant human monoclonal antibody that binds to soluble B-lymphocyte stimulator and inhibits its biological activity. Since receiving approvals for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), several observational studies have investigated the effectiveness of belimumab in the real-world setting. This study reports a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to evaluate the real-world effectiveness of belimumab for the treatment of SLE. Methods A literature search following PRISMA Guidelines and limited to studies in English was performed (2014−2020) to identify relevant studies reporting effectiveness outcomes of belimumab in patients with SLE. A modified version of the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale was used to assess study quality. Outcomes, including SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score, prednisone-equivalent use, and SLE flare were pooled and analyzed using statistical aggregation methods. Results The literature search identified 514 articles for initial review. Of these, 17 articles were suitable for data extraction and summary. Baseline characteristics of patients in real-world studies were generally similar to those of relevant clinical trials, including age, sex, disease duration, SLEDAI score, and prednisone-equivalent use. Real-world use of belimumab was associated with reductions in SLEDAI score (mean baseline score to month 6: 10.1–4.4; 57% reduction), prednisone-equivalent dosing (mean baseline dose to month 6: 12.1 mg/day to 6.9 mg/day; 43% reduction), and flare frequency (12 months prior to belimumab to 12 months after belimumab: 1.15–0.39 mean flares per patient per year; 66% reduction). Long-term data (up to 2 years post-treatment initiation) for SLEDAI score and prednisone-equivalent dose indicated that improvements in both outcomes continue over time among patients remaining on therapy. Conclusions In the real-world setting, observed outcomes with belimumab for the treatment of SLE are consistent with those reported from randomized clinical trials. Improvements persist long-term for SLEDAI activity and prednisone-equivalent use with belimumab. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40744-022-00454-9.
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15
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Plüß M, Piantoni S, Tampe B, Kim AHJ, Korsten P. Belimumab for systemic lupus erythematosus - Focus on lupus nephritis. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2072143. [PMID: 35588699 PMCID: PMC9359396 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2072143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, advances in the treatment and management of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have improved their life expectancy and quality of life. However, lupus nephritis (LN) still represents a major life-threatening complication of the disease. Belimumab (BEL), a fully human monoclonal IgG1λ antibody neutralizing soluble B cell activating factor, was approved more than ten years ago as add-on therapy in adults and pediatric patients with a highly active, autoantibody-positive disease despite standard of care (SoC). Recently, the superiority of the addition of BEL to SoC was also demonstrated in LN. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the study landscape, available therapeutic options for SLE (focusing on BEL in renal and non-renal SLE), and new perspectives in the treatment field of this disease. A personalized treatment approach will likely become available with the advent of novel therapeutic agents for SLE and LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Plüß
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Silvia Piantoni
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, ASST Spedali Civili and University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Björn Tampe
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alfred H J Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.,Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky Center of Human Immunology and Immunotherapy Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Peter Korsten
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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16
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Parodis I, Gomez A, Lindblom J, Chow JW, Doria A, Gatto M. Early Changes in B and Plasma Cell Subsets and Traditional Serological Markers as Predictors of SRI-4 Response to Therapy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:852162. [PMID: 35572992 PMCID: PMC9096349 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.852162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective With the premise of the hypothesis that early biological responses to therapy for active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) portend later clinical improvements, we studied changes in B cell subsets and traditional serological markers in relation to clinical response to standard therapy (ST) with or without the addition of belimumab. Patients and Methods We analyzed data from the BLISS-76, BLISS-SC, and BLISS Northeast Asia trials (N = 1712). Circulating CD19+ B cell subsets were determined by flow-cytometry. We studied associations of relative to baseline percentage changes in circulating B and plasma cell subsets, anti-dsDNA antibody levels and complement levels with SLE Responder Index (SRI)-4 response after 52 weeks of treatment. Changes occurring through week 8 were deemed "rapid," through week 24 "early," and thereafter "delayed". Results In the analysis of the entire cohort, SRI-4 responders showed more prominent decreases from baseline through week 52 in CD19+CD20+CD27- naïve B cells (median change: -61.2% versus -50.0%; P = 0.004), CD19+CD20-CD27 bright plasmablasts (-44.9% versus -33.3%; P = 0.011), and CD19+CD20-CD138+ long-lived plasma cells (-48.2% versus -37.1%; P = 0.024), and a more prominent rapid (+92.0% versus +66.7%; P = 0.002) and early (+60.0% versus +49.5%; P = 0.033) expansion of CD19+CD20+CD27+ memory B cells than non-responders. More prominent rapid reductions in anti-dsDNA (-14.8% versus -8.7%; P = 0.043) and increases in C3 (+4.9% versus +2.1%; P = 0.014) and C4 levels (+11.5% versus +8.3%; P = 0.017) were documented in SRI-4 responders compared with non-responders among patients who received add-on belimumab, but not among patients who received non-biological ST alone. Conclusion SRI-4 responders showed a more prominent rapid expansion of memory B cells and more prominent delayed reductions in naïve B cells, plasmablasts and long-lived plasma cells. Moreover, clinical response to belimumab was associated with preceding more prominent reductions of anti-dsDNA and increases in C3 and C4 levels. Monitoring biological changes may prove useful in SLE patient surveillance and early treatment evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Parodis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Alvaro Gomez
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Julius Lindblom
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jun Weng Chow
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andrea Doria
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Mariele Gatto
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Idborg H, Oke V. Cytokines as Biomarkers in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Value for Diagnosis and Drug Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111327. [PMID: 34768756 PMCID: PMC8582965 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease. The disease is characterized by activation and dysregulation of both the innate and the adaptive immune systems. The autoimmune response targets self-molecules including cell nuclei, double stranded DNA and other intra and extracellular structures. Multiple susceptibility genes within the immune system have been identified, as well as disturbances in different immune pathways. SLE may affect different organs and organ systems, and organ involvement is diverse among individuals. A universal understanding of pathophysiological mechanism of the disease, as well as directed therapies, are still missing. Cytokines are immunomodulating molecules produced by cells of the immune system. Interferons (IFNs) are a broad group of cytokines, primarily produced by the innate immune system. The IFN system has been observed to be dysregulated in SLE, and therefore IFNs have been extensively studied with a hope to understand the disease mechanisms and identify novel targeted therapies. In several autoimmune diseases identification and subsequent blockade of specific cytokines has led to successful therapies, for example tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibition in rheumatoid arthritis. Authors of this review have sought corresponding developments in SLE. In the current review, we cover the actual knowledge on IFNs and other studied cytokines as biomarkers and treatment targets in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Idborg
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Vilija Oke
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Center for Rheumatology, Academic Specialist Center, Stockholm Health Care Services, 11365 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence:
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Levy RA, Gonzalez-Rivera T, Khamashta M, Fox NL, Jones-Leone A, Rubin B, Burriss SW, Gairy K, van Maurik A, Roth DA. 10 Years of belimumab experience: What have we learnt? Lupus 2021; 30:1705-1721. [PMID: 34238087 PMCID: PMC8564244 DOI: 10.1177/09612033211028653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease affecting both adults and children. Belimumab is the only biologic approved for SLE, and the first in a class of drugs known as B-lymphocyte stimulator-specific inhibitors. The introduction of intravenous belimumab in 2011 was a major advance, being the first new therapy approved for SLE in over 50 years. As of April 2021, more than 7200 people with SLE have received belimumab in clinical studies, and it is approved in over 75 countries for the treatment of adults with SLE. A subcutaneous, self-injectable belimumab formulation was licensed in 2017 by both the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA). Belimumab was then approved for use in children in Europe, the USA and Japan in 2019, and China and Brazil in 2020. Recently, belimumab became the first FDA-approved drug for the treatment of adults with active lupus nephritis (LN), the most-common severe manifestation of SLE.Over the past 10 years, belimumab has established its position as a disease modifier in the SLE treatment paradigms. Robust evidence from randomised clinical studies and observational, real-world studies has demonstrated the tolerability and efficacy of belimumab for reducing disease activity and the risk of new, severe SLE flares. This enables patients to taper their glucocorticoid use, which limits damage accumulation. Significantly more patients with active LN met the criteria for renal responses and were at less risk of a renal-related event or death after receiving belimumab plus standard therapy, compared with standard therapy on top of mandatory steroid reduction. Ongoing clinical studies are evaluating belimumab's effectiveness in various indications beyond SLE. Post-marketing and registry studies are gathering additional data on key areas such as pregnancy outcomes after belimumab exposure and belimumab co-administration with other biologics.
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Lokhandwala T, Coutinho AD, Bell CF. Retrospective Analysis of Disease Severity, Health Care Resource Utilization, and Costs Among Patients Initiating Belimumab for the Treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Clin Ther 2021; 43:1320-1335. [PMID: 34243966 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2021.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The goal of this study was to evaluate clinical and economic outcomes associated with the initiation of intravenous (IV) belimumab for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in clinical practice in the United States. METHODS This retrospective study used administrative claims data from the IBM MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Database and the Medicare Supplemental and Coordination of Benefits Database. Data for patients with SLE who initiated (index) IV belimumab were collected for the 12 months before (pre-index) and the 12 months after (post-index) belimumab initiation. Outcomes included SLE disease severity and flares, all-cause health care resource utilization (HCRU) and health care costs, and hospital-based costs and service visits. Post hoc analyses of total hospital-based costs were conducted to further explore drivers of mean post-index costs. FINDINGS Baseline characteristics (N = 908) are as follows: female, 93.4%; mean (SD) age, 45.6 (11.9) years; mean Charlson Comorbidity Index score, 0.9 (2.0); and moderate or severe disease, 94.9%. Disease activity (SLE flare episodes) was significantly reduced between the pre-index and post-index periods (severe flares, 16.4% vs 10.1% [P < 0.0001]; moderate flares, 92.1% vs 85.6% [P < 0.0001]; and mild flares, 77.4% vs 71.1%; [P = 0.0003]). The proportion of patients receiving oral corticosteroids (OCS) was reduced between the pre-index and post-index periods, especially among patients at higher OCS thresholds (prednisone-equivalent dose: ≥60 mg/d, 7.3% vs 4.2%; >40 mg/d, 14.1% vs 7.9%). From the pre-index to the post-index period, few differences in HCRU were observed, although all-cause physician office visits, outpatient visits, and unique prescriptions filled increased significantly. In the 12-month post-index period, patients had a mean of 12.2 (9.0) encounters (eg, outpatient visit or prescription) associated with IV belimumab. All-cause total, medical, and pharmacy costs increased from the pre-index to the post-index period. Mean all-cause hospital-based costs increased from the pre-index to the post-index period ($7735 [26,603] vs $11,030 [88,086]; P = 0.396). However, the 75th, 90th, and 95th percentile costs decreased from the pre-index to the post-index period ($305, $2107, and $3861, respectively). IMPLICATIONS After initiation of IV belimumab, disease activity (number of moderate and severe SLE flares) and use of OCS were significantly reduced. However, HCRU and costs, including hospital-based costs, were generally greater in the post-index period. Further studies will increase understanding of SLE, with the specific goals of incorporating disease activity measures and long-term outcomes in studies of HCRU, costs, and patient outcomes.
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20
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Collins CE, Cortes-Hernández J, Garcia MA, von Kempis J, Schwarting A, Touma Z, Kurtinecz M, Gairy K. Real-World Effectiveness of Belimumab in the Treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Pooled Analysis of Multi-Country Data from the OBSErve Studies. Rheumatol Ther 2020; 7:949-965. [PMID: 33206344 PMCID: PMC7695800 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-020-00243-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The real-world effectiveness of belimumab for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in six countries was evaluated in the OBSErve program. The aim of this post hoc analysis (GSK study 206351) was to pool individual patient OBSErve data to further evaluate the effectiveness of belimumab in a large sample of patients with SLE. Methods OBSErve (Argentina, Canada, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and the USA) enrolled adults ≥ 18 years of age with SLE, who were prescribed belimumab as part of standard therapy (index: date of belimumab initiation). Endpoints (month 6 vs. index) included physician-assessed overall clinical response to belimumab in the overall population (primary) and high disease activity subgroups (secondary; patients with a SLEDAI-2K/SELENA-SLEDAI score ≥ 10 or patients with high anti-dsDNA or low complement at index); other secondary endpoints included changes in glucocorticosteroid (GCS) use and changes in disease activity. Factors associated with physician-assessed overall clinical response were also evaluated. Results In total, 830 patients were included in the overall population (mean [standard deviation (SD)] age: 41.9 [12.57] years; female: 89.3%; 60.4% from the USA). Nearly half (48.1%) of belimumab-treated patients experienced a ≥ 50% physician-assessed improvement in their overall manifestations, and 13% achieved a near normalization of their condition (equal to ≥ 80% improvement). Initiating belimumab while on high-dose (> 7.5 mg/day) GCS use was associated with ≥ 50% clinical improvement at month 6 (OR: 1.9, p = 0.003). Most (78.1%; n = 518/663) patients were able to reduce or discontinue their oral GCS dose after 6 months of belimumab, with a mean (SD) change of − 8.5 (10.74) mg/day prednisone-equivalent. The mean (SD) change from belimumab initiation in disease activity score (SLEDAI-2K/SELENA-SLEDAI) was − 5.7 (4.5; n = 344). Conclusions Belimumab improves clinical manifestations of SLE and is associated with GCS dose reductions in a real-world clinical setting, supporting the real-world effectiveness of belimumab for SLE. Electronic Supplementary Material The online version of this article (10.1007/s40744-020-00243-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Andreas Schwarting
- University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Zahi Touma
- Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto Lupus Clinic, Toronto, ON, Canada
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21
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Akbar L, Alsagheir R, Al-Mayouf SM. Efficacy of a sequential treatment by belimumab in monogenic systemic lupus erythematosus. Eur J Rheumatol 2020; 7:eurjrheum.2020.20087. [PMID: 32910770 PMCID: PMC7574768 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2020.20087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study was to report the safety and potential therapeutic effect of belimumab in monogenic systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Consecutive children with monogenic SLE treated with belimumab were evaluated retrospectively. Response parameters assessment was completed at the time of initiation of belimumab, at 6 months, and last follow-up visit. Response parameters comprised physician global assessment (physician GA) and parent global assessment (parent GA), global disease activity as measured by SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI), and daily glucocorticoids dose. Undesirable events affecting patients during treatment were also collected. Six children with monogenic SLE proved by genetic testing (five patients with C1q deficiency and one patient with deoxyribonuclease II (DNase II) deficiency), failed glucocorticoids and sequential immunosuppressive medications. Belimumab was added to glucocorticoids and current immunosuppressive medications. The main indications for belimumab initiation were mucocutaneous disease, arthritis, and inability to taper glucocorticoids. All patients tolerated belimumab infusion. No serious events were reported. However, one patient was lost to follow-up and died because of sepsis. Compared to the baseline values, there was an improvement in physician GA, parent GA, and SLEDAI, and a notable reduction in the need of daily corticosteroids. However, there were no significant changes in the complement and ds-DNA antibody levels. Belimumab can be considered as an adjunctive therapeutic option for patients with refractory monogenic SLE. Further follow-up and more patients needed to confirm this finding and a larger prospective study is required for more definitive conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lujayn Akbar
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Razan Alsagheir
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman M Al-Mayouf
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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22
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Tocut M, Shoenfeld Y, Zandman-Goddard G. Systemic lupus erythematosus: an expert insight into emerging therapy agents in preclinical and early clinical development. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:1151-1162. [PMID: 32755494 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1807004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic disease that is potentially fatal. There is no cure for SLE and the medications used are associated with toxic side effects. In the era of revolutionary emerging novel biologic agents, the design and investigation of targeted therapy for these patients is necessary. Novel therapies under investigation in phase II-III clinical trials showed promising results. Therapies can target various pathways involved in SLE including cytokines, signal transduction inhibitors, B-cell depletion and interference with co-stimulation. Of interest is the proof of concept of sequential therapy. AREAS COVERED We performed an extensive literature search via PubMed, Medline, Elsevier Science and Springer Link databases between the years 2014-2020 using the following terms: SLE, novel treatments. We have reviewed 232 articles and selected those articles that (i) focus on phase II-III emerging therapies and (ii) offer new findings from existing therapies, which reveal breakthrough concepts in SLE treatment. EXPERT OPINION It is still difficult to crack the puzzle of a successful SLE treatment approach. New strategies with potential may encompass the targeting of more than one protein. Another way forward is to identify each SLE patient and personalize therapy by clinical manifestations, disease activity, serology and activated protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Tocut
- Department of Internal Medicine C, Wolfson Medical Center , Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University , Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University , Tel Aviv, Israel.,Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center , Ramat Gan, Israel.,I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University)
| | - Gisele Zandman-Goddard
- Department of Internal Medicine C, Wolfson Medical Center , Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University , Tel Aviv, Israel
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23
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Babini A, Cappuccio AM, Caprarulo C, Casado G, Eimon A, Figueredo H, García MA, Magri S, Mannucci P, Perez Rodriguez S, Pons-Estel BA, Velozo EJ, Iglesias-Rodriguez M, Streger G. Evaluation of belimumab treatment in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in a clinical practice setting: Results from a 24-month OBSErve study in Argentina. Lupus 2020; 29:1385-1396. [PMID: 32791930 PMCID: PMC7536527 DOI: 10.1177/0961203320947814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective To describe clinical effectiveness of belimumab for systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE) in real-world practice in Argentina. Methods This retrospective, observational study analysed medical record data of
patients with SLE treated with belimumab in 15 centres in Argentina. Primary
endpoint: overall clinical response (assessed on a scale similar to the
6-point Physician Global Assessment) at months 6, 12, 18 and 24, all versus
index (belimumab initiation). Secondary endpoints: improvement in disease
activity (SELENA-SLEDAI), SLE manifestations, and corticosteroid dose
change. Results Records for 81 patients (91% female) were analysed. Clinical improvements
were reported for 95%, 95%, 98% and 100% patients at 6, 12, 18, and
24 months post index, respectively. Mean SELENA-SLEDAI score decreased from
11.21 at index to 4.76, 3.77, 3.86 and 2.17 at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months post
index, respectively. Number of flares decreased from 1.05 at index to 0.21,
0.09, 0.22 and 0.30 at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months post index, respectively.
Mean corticosteroid dose was 14.59 mg/day at index, and 6.45, 5.18, 5.17 and
4.78 mg/day at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months post index, respectively. Conclusions Real-world patients with SLE treated with belimumab in Argentina demonstrated
clinical improvements and reductions in corticosteroid dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Babini
- Hospital Italiano de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - C Caprarulo
- Consultorio Privado, Concordia, Entre Rios, Argentina
| | - G Casado
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Militar Central, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Eimon
- CEMIC, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - H Figueredo
- Hospital de Alta Complejidad 'Pte. Juan Domingo Perón', Formosa, Argentina
| | - M A García
- Hospital Interzonal General de Agudos José de San Martín, La Plata, Argentina
| | - S Magri
- Hospital Italiano de La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - P Mannucci
- Aprillus Asistencia e Investigación de Arcis Salud SRL, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - B A Pons-Estel
- Centro Regional de Enfermedades Autoinmunes y Reumáticas (CREAR), Grupo Oroño, Sanatorio Parque, Rosario, Santa Fé, Argentina
| | - E J Velozo
- Unidad de Reumatologia, Universidad y Sanatorio Adventista del Plata, Entre Rios, Argentina
| | | | - G Streger
- Immunology & Specialty Medicine, GSK, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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24
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Parodis I, Stockfelt M, Sjöwall C. B Cell Therapy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: From Rationale to Clinical Practice. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:316. [PMID: 32754605 PMCID: PMC7381321 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
B cell hyperactivity and breach of tolerance constitute hallmarks of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The heterogeneity of disease manifestations and relatively rare prevalence of SLE have posed difficulties in trial design and contributed to a slow pace for drug development. The anti-BAFF monoclonal antibody belimumab is still the sole targeted therapy licensed for SLE, lending credence to the widely accepted notion that B cells play central roles in lupus pathogenesis. However, more therapeutic agents directed toward B cells or B cell-related pathways are used off-label or have been trialed in SLE. The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab has been used to treat refractory SLE during the last two decades, and the anti-type I IFN receptor anifrolumab is currently awaiting approval after one phase III clinical trial which met its primary endpoint and one phase III trial which met key secondary endpoints. While the latter does not directly affect the maturation and antibody production activity of B cells, it is expected to affect the contribution of B cells in proinflammatory cytokine excretion. The proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, primarily directed toward the plasma cells, has been used in few severe cases as an escape regimen. Collectively, current clinical experience and primary results of ongoing clinical trials prophesy that B cell therapies of selective targets will have an established place in the future personalized therapeutic management of lupus patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Parodis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marit Stockfelt
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Christopher Sjöwall
- Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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25
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Wise LM, Stohl W. Belimumab and Rituximab in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Tale of Two B Cell-Targeting Agents. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:303. [PMID: 32695790 PMCID: PMC7338653 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the centrality of B cells to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), it stands to reason that a candidate therapeutic agent that targets B cells could be efficacious. Both rituximab, a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that binds to CD20 on the surface of B cells, and belimumab, a mAb that binds and neutralizes the B cell survival factor BAFF, have been extensively studied for the treatment of SLE. Despite the greater ability of rituximab to deplete B cells than that of belimumab, randomized controlled trials of rituximab in SLE failed to reach their primary clinical endpoints, whereas the primary clinical endpoints were reached in four independent phase-III clinical trials of belimumab in SLE. Accordingly, belimumab has been approved for treatment of SLE, whereas use of rituximab in SLE remains off-label. Nevertheless, several case series of rituximab have pointed to some utility for rituximab in treating SLE. In this review, we provide a concise summary of the factors that led to belimumab's success in SLE as well an analysis of the elements that may have contributed to the lack of success seen in the rituximab randomized controlled trials in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanna M Wise
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - William Stohl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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26
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Guzman M, Hui-Yuen JS. Management of Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Focus on Belimumab. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2020; 14:2503-2513. [PMID: 32612353 PMCID: PMC7323799 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s216193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Belimumab (Benlysta®) is a fully humanized monoclonal antibody that inhibits B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS, also known as B cell-activating factor of the tumor necrosis factor family) and was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Evaluation Agency for the treatment of autoantibody-positive systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in adults with moderate disease activity. Belimumab was recently FDA approved for use in children with SLE between 5 and 17 years of age. This review discusses the key findings of the belimumab phase III trials in adult SLE (via intravenous and subcutaneous administrations), phase II trial in pediatric SLE (intravenous administration), and post hoc analyses. It also evaluates the current clinical trials of belimumab in specific SLE disease states and highlights the safety profile of belimumab. It discusses the clinical post-marketing use of belimumab in adults and children with SLE and concludes with our recommendations for the use of belimumab to treat pediatric SLE, including a look to the future with increased real-world use in children with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marla Guzman
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, Lake Success, NY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Joyce S Hui-Yuen
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, Lake Success, NY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.,Center for Autoimmune, Musculoskeletal, and Hematopoietic Diseases Research, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
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27
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Parodis I, Åkerström E, Sjöwall C, Sohrabian A, Jönsen A, Gomez A, Frodlund M, Zickert A, Bengtsson AA, Rönnelid J, Gunnarsson I. Autoantibody and Cytokine Profiles during Treatment with Belimumab in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3463. [PMID: 32422945 PMCID: PMC7278961 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether belimumab treatment impacts on levels of autoantibodies and cytokines of interest in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Longitudinally collected serum samples from 78 belimumab-treated Swedish SLE patients were analysed. Serum cytokine levels were determined using Luminex xMAP technology, and nuclear antigen autoantibody specificities using addressable laser bead immunoassay. In patients with detectable levels at baseline, interferon (IFN)-α2 levels were lower at month 6 (median; interquartile range (IQR): 8.9; 1.5-54.9 pg/mL) versus baseline (28.4; 20.9-100.3 pg/mL; p = 0.043). Interleukin (IL)-6 (baseline: 7.1; 2.9-16.1 pg/mL) decreased from month 6 (0.5; 0.5-6.3 pg/mL; p = 0.018) and throughout a 24 month follow-up. IL-10 (baseline: 12.6; 2.8-29.7 pg/mL) showed more rapid decreases from month 3 (1.8; 0.6-9.1 pg/mL; p = 0.003). Levels of anti-dsDNA (p < 0.001), anti-Smith antigen (Sm) (p = 0.002), anti-U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (U1RNP) (p < 0.001), anti-Sm-U1RNP complex (p = 0.028), and anti-ribosomal P (p = 0.012) antibodies decreased from month 3 and remained decreased. Anti-Sm positivity at baseline was associated with higher probability and/or shorter time to achieve sustained SLE responder index-4 response (hazard ratio (HR): 2.52; 95% CI: 1.20-5.29; p = 0.015), independently of other factors. Decline of IL-6 levels through month 3 was greater in responders. In summary, belimumab treatment lowered IFN-α2, IL-6, and IL-10 levels, as well as levels of multiple autoantibodies, however after different time spans. Notably, anti-Sm positivity and early decline in IL-6 levels were associated with favorable treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Parodis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.A.); (A.G.); (A.Z.); (I.G.)
- Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emil Åkerström
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.A.); (A.G.); (A.Z.); (I.G.)
- Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christopher Sjöwall
- Rheumatology/Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, SE-581 85 Linköping, Sweden; (C.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Azita Sohrabian
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; (A.S.); (J.R.)
| | - Andreas Jönsen
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, SE-222 42 Lund, Sweden; (A.J.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Alvaro Gomez
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.A.); (A.G.); (A.Z.); (I.G.)
- Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martina Frodlund
- Rheumatology/Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, SE-581 85 Linköping, Sweden; (C.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Agneta Zickert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.A.); (A.G.); (A.Z.); (I.G.)
- Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders A Bengtsson
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, SE-222 42 Lund, Sweden; (A.J.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Johan Rönnelid
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; (A.S.); (J.R.)
| | - Iva Gunnarsson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.A.); (A.G.); (A.Z.); (I.G.)
- Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
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28
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Bell CF, Priest J, Stott-Miller M, Kan H, Amelio J, Song X, Limone B, Noxon V, Costenbader KH. Real-world treatment patterns, healthcare resource utilisation and costs in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with belimumab: a retrospective analysis of claims data in the USA. Lupus Sci Med 2020; 7:e000357. [PMID: 32341790 PMCID: PMC7174061 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2019-000357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Objective To examine the effects of belimumab initiation on healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU) and costs in SLE. Methods This retrospective observational cohort study used healthcare administrative claims data from the IBM MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Database to identify patients with SLE billing codes who received ≥1 intravenous belimumab infusion between March 2011 and December 2015. The first belimumab administration was the ‘index date’. During the 6-month postindex period, nine belimumab infusions were recommended: three during the initiation period and six during the maintenance period. HCRU and cost data for inpatient admissions, emergency department visits, physician office visits, hospital-based outpatient visits, laboratory services, other outpatient services and outpatient pharmacy prescriptions were compared in the 6-month pre/postindex periods. Results Of the 1879 patients with SLE included, 43% received ≥3 intravenous initiation administrations. An average of 5.3 (SD: 2.4) of the nine recommended belimumab administrations were received within 6 months. In the 6-month preindex versus postindex periods, significant reductions were noted for inpatient hospitalisations (18% vs 9%, p<0.001; mean visits: 0.3 vs 0.14, p<0.001) and emergency department visits (40% vs 24%, p<0.001; mean visits; 3.53 vs 1.96, p<0.001). Mean total costs were higher in the 6-month postindex versus preindex period ($41 426 vs $29 270; p<0.001). Conclusions In this study of real-world intravenous belimumab for SLE, adherence to recommended infusion schedules was low. Outpatient healthcare and associated costs were higher in the 6 months after belimumab was initiated, although inpatient costs were lower. Reasons for non-adherence with belimumab and implications should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher F Bell
- US Value, Evidence and Outcomes, GSK, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Julie Priest
- US Health Outcomes, ViiV Healthcare, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Hong Kan
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Global Patient Outcomes and Real World Evidence, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Justyna Amelio
- Epidemiology, Value Evidence and Outcomes, GSK, Stevenage, UK
| | - Xue Song
- IBM Watson Health, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Karen H Costenbader
- Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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29
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Riancho-Zarrabeitia L, Villa Blanco I, Santos-Gómez M, Aurrecoechea E. Belimumab in systemic lupus erythematosus: Experience in clinical practice settings in a regional hospital. REUMATOLOGIA CLINICA 2020; 16:188-189. [PMID: 29555189 DOI: 10.1016/j.reuma.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elena Aurrecoechea
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Sierrallana, Torrelavega, Cantabria, España
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30
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Wise LM, Stohl W. The safety of belimumab for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2019; 18:1133-1144. [DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2019.1685978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Leanna M Wise
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - William Stohl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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31
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Abstract
Belimumab (Benlysta®) is a human immunoglobulin G1λ monoclonal antibody that inhibits the binding of soluble B lymphocyte stimulator to B cells. It is the only biological agent currently approved for the treatment of non-renal systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Belimumab is approved in the EU, the USA and other countries as add-on therapy in adult patients with active, autoantibody-positive SLE despite standard therapy. In phase III trials, treatment with IV or SC belimumab plus standard therapy was effective in terms of reducing overall disease activity and reducing the incidence and severity of flares, without worsening of patients' overall condition or the development of significant disease activity in new organ systems. Sustained disease control was maintained during longer-term (up to 10 years) treatment with IV belimumab. Belimumab also demonstrated steroid-sparing effects and was associated with clinically meaningful improvements in health-related quality of life and fatigue. Belimumab was generally well tolerated in clinical trials, with low rates of immunogenicity. In view of the flexibility regarding the route of administration and the convenience of the once-weekly, self-administered, SC regimen, add-on therapy with belimumab is a useful treatment option for patients with active, autoantibody-positive SLE despite standard therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah A Blair
- Springer, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, 0754, New Zealand.
| | - Sean T Duggan
- Springer, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, 0754, New Zealand
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32
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Real-world evidence in rheumatic diseases: relevance and lessons learnt. Rheumatol Int 2019; 39:403-416. [PMID: 30725156 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-019-04248-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
An emerging trend in the medical literature, including the Rheumatology literature, is that of accumulating large, multicentric, multi-national data based on registries of patients seen in real life situations. Such real-world evidence (RWE) may help provide valuable insights into the long-term outcomes of disease in unselected patients seen in daily practice, including patients belonging to vulnerable populations such as extremes of age, during pregnancy and lactation. Evidences gathered from real life practice settings can help understand drug prescription patterns, including adherence to treatment guidelines, cost-effectiveness of therapy, and real-life long-term outcomes, and adverse effects of treatment with particular medications. Registry-based data also helps analyze comorbidities in patients with rheumatic diseases, and their impact on quality of life, morbidity and mortality. Traditionally, a randomized controlled trial (RCT), or systematic reviews of multiple, homogenous RCTs, have been considered the cornerstone of evidence-based medicine, and RWE does, at times, provide differing viewpoints from the results of particular drugs in clinical trial settings. Therefore, in the present day, it is prudent to consider the complementary nature of information derived from RWE to that obtained from rigorous, clinical trial settings. Future guidelines for disease management may consider it relevant to include information from RWE in addition to that available from clinical trials, to help devise management guidelines that are harmonious with routine practice settings.
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33
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Bangert E, Wakani L, Merchant M, Strand V, Touma Z. Impact of belimumab on patient-reported outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus: review of clinical studies. PATIENT-RELATED OUTCOME MEASURES 2019; 10:1-7. [PMID: 30666173 PMCID: PMC6330963 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s134326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune, multisystem rheumatic disease with significant impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) provide valuable data on patient perceptions across a variety of domains, such as HRQoL, pain, fatigue, and depression. The measurement and results of PROs with respect to HRQoL in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on belimumab (B-lymphocyte stimulator inhibitor) in SLE are reviewed here, including BLISS-52 and BLISS-76, as well as publications related to belimumab trials that included HRQoL data. Other trials that evaluated belimumab did not include HRQoL data and were therefore not included in the analysis. The BLISS-52 and BLISS-76 RCTs met their primary endpoints and demonstrated improvements in PROs, measured by the 36-item Short Form Health Survey, EuroQol 5 Dimensions, and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue Scale. Belimumab was shown overall to improve PROs in adult autoantibody-positive lupus patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Bangert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Laura Wakani
- University of Toronto Lupus Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto, ON, Canada,
| | - Mehveen Merchant
- Division of Rheumatology, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Vibeke Strand
- Division of Immunology/Rheumatology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Zahi Touma
- University of Toronto Lupus Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto, ON, Canada,
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34
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Prete M, Leone P, Frassanito MA, Desantis V, Marasco C, Cicco S, Dammacco F, Vacca A, Racanelli V. Belimumab restores Treg/Th17 balance in patients with refractory systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2018; 27:1926-1935. [PMID: 30180771 DOI: 10.1177/0961203318797425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Belimumab, a specific inhibitor of the soluble B lymphocyte stimulator (BlyS), is the first biological drug approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) refractory to standard therapy. Given that an imbalance between regulatory T cells (Treg) and interleukin (IL)-17A-secreting T cells (Th17) has been reported in various autoimmune disorders, we assessed the frequency of both Treg and Th17 peripheral blood populations before and after belimumab administration in 20 patients with active SLE refractory to standard therapy. After six months of treatment, the mean SELENA-SLEDAI score as well as the mean anti-double-stranded DNA antibody titers were significantly decreased. In addition, we observed a significant increase in Treg percentages and a parallel, significant decrease in Th17 percentages, accompanied by significantly reduced serum levels of IL-21. In vitro studies showed that Treg purified from belimumab-treated patients were fully functional and displayed a suppressor function similar to that of Treg purified from healthy donors. Belimumab can restore Treg/Th17 balance in SLE patients with uncontrolled disease activity, and this results in decreased flare rate and reduced glucocorticoid dosage.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Prete
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - P Leone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - M A Frassanito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - V Desantis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - C Marasco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - S Cicco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - F Dammacco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - A Vacca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - V Racanelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine "Guido Baccelli", University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
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Trentin F, Gatto M, Zen M, Larosa M, Maddalena L, Nalotto L, Saccon F, Zanatta E, Iaccarino L, Doria A. Effectiveness, Tolerability, and Safety of Belimumab in Patients with Refractory SLE: a Review of Observational Clinical-Practice-Based Studies. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2018; 54:331-343. [PMID: 29512034 PMCID: PMC6132773 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-018-8675-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
To date, belimumab is the only biological drug approved for the treatment of patients with active refractory SLE. We compared and critically analyzed the results of 11 observational clinical-practice-based studies, conducted in SLE referral centers. Despite the differences in endpoints and follow-up duration, all studies remarked that belimumab provides additional benefits when used as an add-on to existing treatment, allowing a higher rate of patients to reach remission and to taper or discontinue corticosteroids. In the OBSErve studies, 2–9.6% of patients discontinued corticosteroids and 72–88.4% achieved a ≥ 20% improvement by physician’s judgment at 6 months. In Hui-Yuen’s study, 51% of patients attained response by simplified SRI at month 6. In Sthoeger’s study, 72.3% of patients discontinued corticosteroids and 69.4% achieved clinical remission by PGA after a median follow-up of 2.3 years. In the multicentric Italian study, 77 and 68.7% of patients reached SRI-4 response at months 6 and 12, respectively. In all the studies, disease activity indices decreased over time. Retention rates at 6, 9, and 12 months were 82–94.1, 61.2–83.3, and 56.7–79.2%, respectively. The main limitations of these studies include the lack of a control group, the short period of observation (6–24 months) and the lack of precise restrictions regarding concomitant medication management. This notwithstanding, these experiences provide a more realistic picture of real-life effectiveness of the drug compared with the randomized controlled clinical trials, where stringent inclusion/exclusion criteria and changes in background therapy could limit the inference of data to the routine clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Trentin
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Mariele Gatto
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Margherita Zen
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Larosa Maddalena
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Linda Nalotto
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Saccon
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Zanatta
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Iaccarino
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Doria
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy.
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Elalouf O, Keeling SO, Touma Z. Subcutaneous belimumab in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. Immunotherapy 2018; 10:1163-1173. [PMID: 30105936 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2018-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease with various clinical manifestations, organ involvement and laboratory findings. The disease can involve any organ including skin, joints, kidneys, central and peripheral nervous system, cardiovascular system and more. Currently, the cornerstone of treatment includes antimalarial and immunosuppressive medications and glucocorticosteroids. Recently, great effort has been invested in finding more targeted drugs for achieving better control of the disease with less adverse events. Intravenous belimumab was the first and only biologic drug to be approved by the US FDA and Health Canada for lupus over the last 50 years, and recently was studied in subcutaneous form. This paper will review the major belimumab trials with a focus on the subcutaneous form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofir Elalouf
- Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto Lupus Clinic, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Zahi Touma
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto Lupus Clinic, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Gergianaki I, Bertsias G. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Primary Care: An Update and Practical Messages for the General Practitioner. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:161. [PMID: 29896474 PMCID: PMC5986957 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex chronic autoimmune disease that manifests a wide range of organ involvement. Traditionally, the diagnosis and management of SLE is provided at secondary and tertiary centers to ensure prompt initiation of treatment, adequate control of flares and prevention of irreversible organ damage. Notwithstanding, the role of primary care in SLE is also emerging as there are still significant unmet needs such as the diagnostic delay at the community level and the high burden of therapy- and disease-related comorbidities. In the present review, we summarize practical messages for primary care physicians and general practitioners (GPs) concerning early diagnosis and proper referral of patients with SLE. In addition, we discuss the main comorbidities complicating the disease course and the recommended preventative measures, and we also provide an update on the role and current educational needs of GPs regarding the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irini Gergianaki
- Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University of Crete Faculty of Medicine, Iraklio, Greece
| | - George Bertsias
- Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University of Crete Faculty of Medicine, Iraklio, Greece
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Bejar J, Kessler O, Sabag AD, Sabo E, Itzhak OB, Neufeld G, Vadasz Z. Semaphorin3A: A Potential Therapeutic Tool for Lupus Nephritis. Front Immunol 2018; 9:634. [PMID: 29670620 PMCID: PMC5893899 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The immune regulatory properties of semaphorin3A (sema3A) (both innate and adaptive) are well established in many in vitro studies. The injection of sema3A into a mice model of rheumatoid arthritis was proven to be highly beneficial, both in attenuating clinical symptoms and in decreasing inflammatory mechanisms. Objectives This study was designed in order to assess the possible therapeutic benefits of sema3A following its injection into female NZB/W mice. Methods Forty-eight NZB/W mice were recruited for this study. Thirty mice were treated as a “prevention group” and 18 were used as a “treatment group.” Eight-week-old mice were acclimated and then divided into the two abovementioned groups. Results The injection of sema3A into young mice (at week 12) before the onset of disease (the prevention group) delayed the appearance of proteinuria. Here, the median time to severe proteinuria was 110 days, 95% CI: 88–131. However, in mice in which the empty vector was injected, the median time to severe proteinuria was 63 days, 95% CI: 0–139. sema3A treatment, significantly reduced renal damage, namely, it prevented the deposition of immune complexes in the glomeruli. When sema3A was injected at the onset of proteinuria (the treatment group), aiming to treat rather than to prevent disease in these mice, survival was increased and the deterioration of proteinuria was delayed. Conclusion Semaphorin3A is highly beneficial in reducing lupus nephritis in NZB/W mice. It delays the appearance and deterioration of proteinuria, and increases the survival rates in these mice. The regulatory mechanisms of sema3A involve both innate and adaptive immune responses. Further studies will establish the idea of applying sema3A in the treatment of lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Bejar
- The Department of Pathology, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ofra Kessler
- The Bruce Rappaport Medical School, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Adi D Sabag
- The Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Edmond Sabo
- The Department of Pathology, RAMBAM Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ofer Ben Itzhak
- The Department of Pathology, RAMBAM Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Gera Neufeld
- The Bruce Rappaport Medical School, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Zahava Vadasz
- The Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
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Fanouriakis A, Adamichou C, Koutsoviti S, Panopoulos S, Staveri C, Klagou A, Tsalapaki C, Pantazi L, Konsta S, Mavragani CP, Dimopoulou D, Ntali S, Katsikas G, Boki KA, Vassilopoulos D, Konstantopoulou P, Liossis SN, Elezoglou A, Tektonidou M, Sidiropoulos P, Erden A, Sfikakis PP, Bertsias G, Boumpas DT. Low disease activity-irrespective of serologic status at baseline-associated with reduction of corticosteroid dose and number of flares in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with belimumab: A real-life observational study. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2018; 48:467-474. [PMID: 29555348 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2018.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2017] [Revised: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low disease activity is a validated target of current systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of belimumab to achieve low disease activity states in real-life settings. METHODS Multicentre prospective observational study of consecutive SLE patients receiving belimumab for at least 3 months, due to active disease refractory to at least one conventional immunosuppressant. Disease activity, including the recently defined lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) and remission (clinical SLEDAI-2K = 0), accrual of organ damage, flares and side effects were documented. RESULTS Ninety-one patients were included [94.5% women, mean (SD) age 45.9 (12.5) years]. Most frequent manifestations were arthritis (76.7%), rash (72.5%), serologic activity (low C3/C4 and/or high anti-dsDNA; 54.9%), hair loss (47.2%) and mucosal ulcers (27.5%). Median (range) duration of treatment was 10.5 (3.0-42.1) months. Belimumab significantly decreased average SLEDAI-2K, physician global assessment (PGA) and daily prednisone dose over time, as early as 3 months after initiation, with over 20% of patients discontinuing corticosteroids. Although reduction in clinical (i.e., excluding serology) SLEDAI-2K was more pronounced in patients who were serologically active (from 8 to 1.5 at 12 months) as compared to serologically inactive (from 6 to 4) at baseline, attainment of LLDAS did not differ between the two groups and was reached by more than 40% of completer patients after 9-12 months. In addition, the number of flares and severe flares was reduced by 62% and 50%, respectively, during the first 12 months of treatment. Twenty patients (22.0%) discontinued treatment due to inadequate response and two due to side effects potentially related to the drug. CONCLUSIONS In real-life, belimumab is efficacious in achieving low disease activity in over 40% of unselected patients, in combination with reduction of corticosteroid dosage and number of flares. Both serologically active and inactive patients respond to the drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonis Fanouriakis
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 4th Department of Medicine, "Attikon" University Hospital, Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece-Medical School University of Cyprus, Nikosia, Cyprus.
| | - Christina Adamichou
- Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Sofia Koutsoviti
- Department of Rheumatology, "Asklipieion" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Stylianos Panopoulos
- Rheumatology Unit, First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysanthi Staveri
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School & Patras University Hospital, Rion, Patras, Greece
| | - Anastasia Klagou
- Department of Rheumatology, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Tsalapaki
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, "Ippokrateion" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Styliani Konsta
- Department of Rheumatology, "Evangelismos" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Clio P Mavragani
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Despoina Dimopoulou
- Department of Rheumatology, "Ippokrateion" General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Georgios Katsikas
- Department of Rheumatology, "Evangelismos" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Kyriaki A Boki
- "Sismanogleio-Amalia Flemming" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Stamatis-Nick Liossis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School & Patras University Hospital, Rion, Patras, Greece
| | - Antonia Elezoglou
- Department of Rheumatology, "Asklipieion" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Tektonidou
- Rheumatology Unit, First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Prodromos Sidiropoulos
- Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Abdulsamet Erden
- Department of Rheumatology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Petros P Sfikakis
- Rheumatology Unit, First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Bertsias
- Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Boumpas
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 4th Department of Medicine, "Attikon" University Hospital, Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece-Medical School University of Cyprus, Nikosia, Cyprus
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Clinical predictors of response and discontinuation of belimumab in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in real life setting. Results of a large, multicentric, nationwide study. J Autoimmun 2018; 86:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Touma Z, Gladman DD. Current and future therapies for SLE: obstacles and recommendations for the development of novel treatments. Lupus Sci Med 2017; 4:e000239. [PMID: 29344386 PMCID: PMC5761306 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2017-000239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
SLE is a serious, debilitating autoimmune disease that affects various organs and body systems. Of all the heterogeneous autoimmune diseases, SLE is perhaps the most heterogeneous. Patients with SLE, who are primarily female, have diverse disease manifestations and severity. SLE is characterised by substantial concentrations of autoantibodies against nuclear antigens, which are thought to be caused by immune cell dysregulation. Until recently, several immunosuppressant agents were used to treat this disease. Efforts to develop drugs against targets potentially involved in disease mechanisms have resulted in the identification and use of BAFF (B-cell activating factor)/APRIL (a proliferation-inducing ligand) inhibitors to treat SLE. Drugs in late-stage development that focus on pathways that are dysregulated in SLE include those that target the interferon pathway, T-cell signalling and B-cell signalling. New therapeutic agents are still necessary because of the unmet medical needs associated with this disease, including insufficient disease control, poor health-related quality of life, comorbidities, toxicity of the majority of therapies and diminished survival. Despite the substantial long-term investment of research, clinical activity and resources for identifying new treatments for this disease, only one new therapy, the biological belimumab, has been approved in the past 50 years. Efforts to develop drugs to address these needs are challenged by problems associated with disease heterogeneity, variable disease mechanisms and trial design. This review provides an overview of current and future treatments, discusses challenges in the SLE drug development process and offers recommendations for overcoming these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahi Touma
- Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, University of Toronto, Lupus Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dafna D Gladman
- Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, University of Toronto, Lupus Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Marcondes F, Scheinberg M. Belimumab in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematous: An evidence based review of its place in therapy. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 17:103-107. [PMID: 29180126 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic lupus erythematous is an autoimmune disease with diverse clinical features and has its development associated with a complexity of genetic, hormonal and environmental factors and the development of autoantibodies. Identification of new treatments is currently an area of intense investigation. Belimumab is the first biologic approved for the treatment of the disease inhibiting the excessive B cell activity observed in these patients and consequently reduction of autoantibodies. AIM To review the current transition of the evidence available of its use in real life patients with persistent active disease while on conventional therapies. EVIDENCE The results observed on the large series of patients (over 50 patients) followed for at least six months confirm the observations from phase 3 trials. In clinical practice close to two third of the patients remained on belimumab and one third discontinued mostly due to evaluation by the doctor or the patient or both of no detectable positive response. The presence of adverse events was considerably low and the subgroups with skin and joint manifestations appear to benefit the most. Daily steroid use is usually reduced to a significantly low when compared with the intake before introduction of the biologic Although not seen on trials in real life the addition of belimumab to the conventional therapy in lupus nephritis is being reported in several patients. Cost of the medication is still an issue that hampers its use. Further evidence of its use in certain specific groups is under investigation and its results should shed light on additional indications. PLACE IN THERAPY Considering what is currently published on the evidence here reviewed in the use of belimumab in clinical practice it is our understanding that belimumab it will be gradually incorporated in the armamentarium of treatment not necessarily on refractory patients. We believe that with the upcoming of the subcutaneous route in the near future should also help in widen the use of the belimumab to be considered in first line combination set ups.
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Liossis SNC, Staveri C. B Cell-Based Treatments in SLE: Past Experience and Current Directions. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2017; 19:78. [DOI: 10.1007/s11926-017-0707-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Doria A, Cervera R, Gatto M, Chehab G, Schneider M. The new targeted therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus: Is the glass half-full or half-empty? Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:1119-1124. [PMID: 28899802 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Biologic therapy is still limited in lupus, where chronic steroid exposure and wide-spectrum immunosuppression are major triggers of organ damage. In this viewpoint, the authors summarize their views for a "half-full or half-empty" glass on targeted therapy in SLE. The are several reasons for seeing the glass half-empty and in this section the authors propose a critical reflection on scarceness of novel targeted lupus therapies. They show how hard it is to identify suitable biological and clinical targets and to choose the patients that may best fit those targets, as well as to stratify patients according to disease subtype and response, all contributing to the final outcome. On the other hand, reasons are emerging to see the glass half-full, including the growing evidence that disease activity and damage can both be hindered by the proper use of novel drugs and that promising molecules are upcoming. In this section, the authors contextualize potentials and failures of new drugs, providing a critical reading of disappointing results and underlining the concrete benefits obtainable through a wise use of available treatments. Indeed, combining medications with new therapeutic strategies such as the treat-to-target seems the right approach to add some water to a filling glass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Doria
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Ricard Cervera
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Mariele Gatto
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gamal Chehab
- Policlinic and Hiller Research Unit for Rheumatology, UKD, Heinrich-Heine-University Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Matthias Schneider
- Policlinic and Hiller Research Unit for Rheumatology, UKD, Heinrich-Heine-University Duesseldorf, Germany
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