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Zhang H, Ren S, Hu J, Li G. Long-term renal survival in patients with IgA nephropathy: a systematic review. Ren Fail 2024; 46:2394636. [PMID: 39192601 PMCID: PMC11360644 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2024.2394636] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The management strategy for IgA nephropathy (IgAN), has undergone constant improvements since the disease entity was first described 50 years ago. However, it is still unknown how these changes affected the long-term renal survival of IgAN patients. We systematically evaluate changes in IgAN renal survival by searching PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library Database of Systematic Reviews from inception to 19 May 2024. We included a large sample of 103076 IgAN cases from 158 studies. Renal survival rates were 94.16% (95% CI: 94.02% to 94.31%), 88.68% (95% CI: 88.48% to 88.87%), and 78.13% (95% CI: 77.82% to 78.43%) at three, five, and ten-year, respectively. Over the past few decades, there haven't been any sound changes in the 3-year and 5-year renal survival rates. The kidney survival rate in developed countries is higher than in developing countries. Researchers consistently show that while proteinuria < 1.0 g/24 h, renal survival rates increase dramatically. In IgAN, long-term renal survival fluctuated rather than continuously improving over time. Our system review's findings indicate that supportive care-the most important recommendation for managing IgAN has shown promising results. The long-term outcomes of IgAN could be significantly improved by the latest developed treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijian Zhang
- Renal Department, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Song Ren
- Renal Department, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Jieqiang Hu
- Renal Department, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Guisen Li
- Renal Department, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
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Tian H, Zhai Y, Sun S, Zhang W, Zhao Z. The transcription factor HMGB2 indirectly regulates APRIL expression and Gd-IgA1 production in patients with IgA nephropathy. Ren Fail 2024; 46:2338931. [PMID: 38622929 PMCID: PMC11022921 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2024.2338931] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide. Proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) was identified as an important cause of glycosylation deficiency of IgA1 (Gd-IgA1), which can 'trigger' IgAN. Our previous study indicated that high migration group protein B2 (HMGB2) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with IgAN was associated with disease severity, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. MATERIALS AND METHODS The location of HMGB2 was identified by immunofluorescence. qRT-PCR and Western blotting were used to measure HMGB2, HMGA1, and APRIL expression. Gd-IgA1 levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, we used DNA pull-down, protein profiling, and transcription factor prediction software to identify proteins bound to the promoter region of the APRIL gene. RNA interference and coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) were used to verify the relationships among HMGB2, high mobility group AT-hook protein 1 (HMGA1), and APRIL. RESULTS HMGB2 expression was greater in IgAN patients than in HCs and was positively associated with APRIL expression in B cells. DNA pull-down and protein profiling revealed that HMGB2 and HMGA1 bound to the promoter region of the APRIL gene. The expression levels of HMGA1, APRIL, and Gd-IgA1 were downregulated after HMGB2 knockdown. Co-IP indicated that HMGB2 binds to HMGA1. The Gd-IgA1 concentration in the supernatant was reduced after HMGA1 knockdown. HMGA1 binding sites were predicted in the promoter region of the APRIL gene. CONCLUSION HMGB2 expression is greater in IgAN patients than in healthy controls; it promotes APRIL expression by interacting with HMGA1, thereby inducing Gd-IgA1 overexpression and leading to IgAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Tian
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- The Renal Research Institution of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaling Zhai
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- The Renal Research Institution of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuaigang Sun
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- The Renal Research Institution of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenhui Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- The Renal Research Institution of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhanzheng Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- The Renal Research Institution of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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3
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Cheung CK, Barratt J, Lafayette R, Liew A, Suzuki Y, Tesař V, Trimarchi H, Wong MG, Zhang H, Rizk DV. Targeting APRIL in the treatment of glomerular diseases. Kidney Int 2024; 106:806-818. [PMID: 39182759 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2024.08.012] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) is a key member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily of cytokines and plays a central role in B-cell survival, proliferation, and Ig class switching. Recently, there has been increasing interest in the role of APRIL and the related cytokine B-cell activating factor in several glomerular diseases, because of their importance in the above processes. The therapeutic inhibition of APRIL represents a potentially attractive immunomodulatory approach that may abrogate deleterious host immune responses in autoimmune diseases while leaving other important functions of humoral immunity intact, such as memory B-cell function and responses to vaccination, in contrast to B-cell-depleting strategies. In this review, we describe the physiological roles of APRIL in B-cell development and their relevance to glomerular diseases, and outline emerging clinical trial data studying APRIL inhibition, with a focus on IgA nephropathy where the clinical development of APRIL inhibitors is in its most advanced stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chee Kay Cheung
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester National Health Service Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester National Health Service Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Richard Lafayette
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Adrian Liew
- The Kidney and Transplant Practice, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yusuke Suzuki
- Department of Nephrology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Vladimír Tesař
- Department of Nephrology, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hernán Trimarchi
- Nephrology Service and Kidney Transplant Unit, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Muh Geot Wong
- Department of Renal Medicine, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Hong Zhang
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Dana V Rizk
- Division of Nephrology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
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Qu S, Zhou XJ, Zhang H. Genetics of IgA nephrology: risks, mechanisms, and therapeutic targets. Pediatr Nephrol 2024; 39:3157-3165. [PMID: 38600219 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-024-06369-7] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a genetically complex multifactorial trait. Over the past decade, population-based genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified more than 30 IgAN risk loci, providing novel perspectives on both the epidemiology of the disease and its underlying molecular mechanisms. In addition, the association between IgAN and galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) presented another avenue for genetic exploration due to the heritability of the elevated serum Gd-IgA1 levels. These endeavors also yielded and enabled refinement of polygenic risk scores, which may help identify specific groups of individuals at significantly increased risks, leading to stratifications of medical treatments. In this review, we aim to explore the existing evidence for genetic causation in IgAN. We summarize the state of genetic research in IgAN and how it has led to the reformulation of the new pathogenesis model and novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Qu
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, No. 8, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu-Jie Zhou
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, No. 8, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, No. 8, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Lafayette R, Tumlin J, Fenoglio R, Kaufeld J, Pérez Valdivia MA, Wu MS, Susan Huang SH, Alamartine E, Kim SG, Yee M, Kateifides A, Rice K, Garlo K, Barratt J. Efficacy and Safety of Ravulizumab in IgA Nephropathy: A Phase 2 Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Am Soc Nephrol 2024:00001751-990000000-00457. [PMID: 39455063 DOI: 10.1681/asn.0000000534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 10/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Key Points
This phase 2, double-blind, randomized controlled trial evaluated the complement C5 inhibitor, ravulizumab, in adults with IgA nephropathy.A 30.1% (90% confidence interval, 13.7% to 43.5%) relative reduction in proteinuria for ravulizumab versus placebo was observed at approximately 6 months.Treatment with ravulizumab was well tolerated.
Background
The complement system plays a central role in the pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy. We present findings from a phase 2 trial of ravulizumab, a complement C5 inhibitor.
Methods
The Study of Ravulizumab in Proliferative Lupus Nephritis or IgA Nephropathy (NCT04564339) was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of ravulizumab in addition to standard of care. Adults with IgA nephropathy, proteinuria ≥1 g/d, and eGFR ≥30 ml/min per 1.73 m2, and on stable renin-angiotensin blockade were randomized 2:1 to ravulizumab (intravenous every 8 weeks) or placebo for 26 weeks. From week 26–50, all participants received open-label ravulizumab. The primary end point was percentage change in proteinuria from baseline (BL) to week 26. Secondary end points included change in proteinuria at week 50 and eGFR. Safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics were evaluated.
Results
Forty-three patients were randomized to ravulizumab and 23 to placebo. At week 26, a statistically significant reduction in proteinuria was observed with ravulizumab versus placebo: −41.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], −50.2% to −32.0%) change in urine protein with ravulizumab and −16.8% (95% CI, −31.8% to 1.6%) change with placebo (30.1% treatment effect; P = 0.005). At week 50, there was a −44.8% (95% CI, −55.1% to −32.1%) change from BL in urine protein with ravulizumab, and in patients who crossed over from placebo to ravulizumab at week 26, the change from BL (week 0) to week 50 was −45.1% (−58.0% to −28.4%). The least squares mean change in eGFR from BL to week 26 with ravulizumab was 0.2 (95% CI, −2.3 to 2.7) ml/min per 1.73 m2 and with placebo was −4.5 (−7.9 to −1.1) ml/min per 1.73 m2. From BL to week 50, the least squares mean change in eGFR with ravulizumab was −3.9 (95% CI, −6.4 to−1.3) ml/min per 1.73 m2, and in patients who crossed over from placebo to ravulizumab at week 26, it was −6.3 (−9.7 to −2.9) ml/min per 1.73 m2. Ravulizumab was well tolerated, with an adverse event profile similar to that for placebo.
Conclusions
An early, sustained, and clinically meaningful reduction in proteinuria and trend toward stabilization of eGFR were observed with ravulizumab versus placebo. A phase 3 trial (NCT06291376) is enrolling.
Clinical Trial registry name and registration number:
Study of Ravulizumab in Proliferative Lupus Nephritis or IgA Nephropathy, NCT04564339.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Lafayette
- Stanford Glomerular Disease Center, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California
| | - James Tumlin
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Roberta Fenoglio
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrological, Rheumatological and Rare Diseases including Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases, Coordinating Center of the Inter-regional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley (North-West Italy), San Giovanni Bosco Hub Hospital, ASL Città di Torino, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences of the University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Jessica Kaufeld
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Mai-Szu Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Han Susan Huang
- Kidney Clinical Research Unit, London Health Sciences Center, East London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric Alamartine
- Service de Néphrologie, Hôpital Nord CHU Saint Etienne, Saint Etienne, France
| | - Sung Gyun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Korea
| | - Min Yee
- AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Alexion, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Kara Rice
- AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Alexion, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
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6
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Croft M, Salek-Ardakani S, Ware CF. Targeting the TNF and TNFR superfamilies in autoimmune disease and cancer. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024:10.1038/s41573-024-01053-9. [PMID: 39448880 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-01053-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024]
Abstract
The first anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) monoclonal antibody, infliximab (Remicade), celebrated its 25th anniversary of FDA approval in 2023. Inhibitors of TNF have since proved clinically efficacious at reducing inflammation associated with several autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and Crohn's disease. The success of TNF inhibitors raised unrealistic expectations for targeting other members of the TNF superfamily (TNFSF) of ligands and their receptors, with difficulties in part related to their more limited, variable expression and potential redundancy. However, there has been a resurgence of interest and investment, with many of these cytokines or their cognate receptors now under clinical investigation as targets for modulation of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, as well as cancer. This Review assesses TNFSF-targeted biologics currently in clinical development for immune system-related diseases, highlighting ongoing challenges and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Croft
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | | | - Carl F Ware
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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Shen Y, Yuan J, Chen S, Zhang YF, Yin L, Hong Q, Zha Y. Combination treatment with telitacicept, mycophenolate mofetil and glucocorticoids for immunoglobulin A nephropathy: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2024; 12:6307-6313. [PMID: 39417050 PMCID: PMC11372520 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i29.6307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telitacicept reduces B cell activation and abnormal immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibody production by inhibiting the activity of B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), thereby decreasing IgA deposition in the glomeruli and local inflammatory response. This ultimately protects the kidneys from damage. This mechanism suggests that Telitacicept has potential efficacy in the treatment of IgA nephropathy. CASE SUMMARY We present the case of a 24-year-old female who was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy due to significant proteinuria and mild renal impairment. Pathologically, she exhibited focal proliferative glomerulonephritis. Treatment with angiotensin II receptor blocker, hormones, and mycophenolate mofetil did not lead to a significant improvement in her condition. However, upon the addition of telitacicept, the patient's renal function recovered and her proteinuria rapidly reduced. Hormones were swiftly tapered and discontinued, with no occurrence of severe infections or related complications. CONCLUSION Telitacicept combined with hormones and mycophenolate mofetil may be a safe and effective induction therapy for IgA nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Shen
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Jin Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yong-Feng Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Ling Yin
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Qin Hong
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yan Zha
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, Guizhou Province, China
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Swaminathan S, Chacko B. Immunoglobulin A nephropathy is not what it used to be! Intern Med J 2024. [PMID: 39387640 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16539] [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: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024]
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide and thought to be a benign disease. Recent literature review would suggest otherwise, with outcomes remaining generally poor. Few patients do not progress to kidney failure in their lifetime even in population groups previously thought to be low risk. The previously established treatment approach predominantly focuses on supportive care through renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibition and steroid-based immunosuppression in selected cases. However, recent advances in the understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying this disease process have allowed for the development of new target therapies. This brief review provides an overview of improved understanding of IgA nephropathy and novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shriram Swaminathan
- Nephrology and Transplantation Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bobby Chacko
- Nephrology and Transplantation Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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Wang M, Ma J, Yao L, Fan Y. Efficacy and safety of telitacicept, a BLyS/APRIL dual inhibitor, in the treatment of IgA nephropathy: a retrospective case-control study. Clin Kidney J 2024; 17:sfae285. [PMID: 39391591 PMCID: PMC11464987 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfae285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Telitacicept, a B lymphocyte stimulator/A proliferation-inducing ligand dual-target fusion protein, has recently been used in autoimmune diseases. We assessed the efficacy and safety of telitacicept in immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) patients. Methods This study included 42 IgAN patients who received telitacicept treatment, forming the 'whole telitacicept group'. Among them, 20 patients who had not previously received corticosteroid (CS) therapy or immunosuppressive (IS) agents were categorized as the 'newly treated telitacicept subgroup'. Additionally, 28 patients who were selected to match historical controls received conventional IS therapy (CS therapy with/without IS agents) and were classified as the 'conventional IS group'. Telitacicept was partially used in combination with conventional IS therapy, including initial CS in different doses. Various indicators were compared at 4-week intervals up to 24 weeks among the three groups. Results After 24 weeks of treatment, the 24-hour proteinuria decreased from 1.70 g [interquartile range (IQR) 1.05-2.58] to 0.21 g (IQR 0.39-0.13) (P = .043) in the newly treated telitacicept subgroup, from 1.78 g (IQR 0.97-2.82) to 0.44 g (IQR 1.48-0.16) (P = .001) in the conventional IS group and from 1.07 g (IQR 0.66-1.99) to 0.26 g (IQR 0.59-0.17) (P = .028) in the whole telitacicept group. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) increased from 76.58 ± 30.26 ml/min/1.73 m2 to 80.30 ± 26.76 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P = .016) in the newly treated telitacicept subgroup, from 72.73 ± 33.41 ml/min/1.73 m2 to 84.08 ± 26.81 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P = .011) in the conventional IS group and from 70.10 ± 32.88 ml/min/1.73 m2 to 71.21 ± 31.49 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P = .065) in the whole telitacicept group. During follow-up periods, the efficacy rates of the three groups did not show statistically significant differences and no serious adverse events were observed. Conclusions Telitacicept may be a safe and effective treatment for IgAN, offering reductions in proteinuria and increases in eGFR similar to conventional IS therapy. After a 24-week follow-up, the incidence of adverse events was lower for telitacicept than for conventional IS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Department of Nephrology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jianfei Ma
- Department of Nephrology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Li Yao
- Department of Nephrology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yi Fan
- Department of Nephrology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
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Zhu H, Hu HQ, Wei HL, Zhang DX, Yang H, Zhang QK, Jin L. Efficacy and safety of telitacicept in patients with lupus nephritis. Exp Ther Med 2024; 28:371. [PMID: 39091632 PMCID: PMC11292174 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12660] [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] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Although telitacicept is a promising drug for treating systemic lupus erythematosus, there are limited studies on its efficacy and safety in patients with lupus nephritis in China. This lack of research data restricts its potential for broader application and acceptance on a global scale. The present study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of telitacicept in patients with lupus nephritis (LN) in China. Using a self-controlled before-after comparison method, patients with LN were recruited at Lishui Central Hospital between February 2022 and April 2023, who received telitacicept weekly as part of the standard treatment. Data on the systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K), glucocorticoid dosing and the quantity of immunosuppressive medicines prescribed was collected. Additionally, serum complements, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), urinary protein levels, immunoglobulin concentrations, serum creatinine levels, plasma albumin concentrations, platelet counts and renal function parameters were documented throughout the study. A total of 13 patients were enrolled in the trial, comprising 11 women and two men. Following 12-48 weeks of treatment with telitacicept (80 or 160 mg per week), 84.6% (n=11) of all patients experienced symptom relief and their SLEDAI-2K score was reduced by more than four points. By the observation endpoint, the median glucocorticoid dosage of the 13 patients was decreased from 15 to 2.5 mg/d, and six patients discontinued their glucocorticoids. Furthermore, 46.1% of patients (n=6) reduced their dose and number of immunosuppressive medicines, while 15.4% (n=2) stopped their immunosuppressive medicines. Minimal changes were observed in serum creatinine, platelet count, C3 levels and C4 levels among patients. Immunoglobulin levels (IgG, IgA and IgM) remained stable or showed an upward trend. Plasma albumin levels remained within the normal range in three patients and increased in ten patients. It increased to the normal range in three of these ten patients. At the endpoint, ESR levels decreased in all patients. Additionally, three patients displayed varying degrees of renal function improvement, and their estimated glomerular filtration rate (ml/min/l.73 m2) increased from 127.8 to 134.2, 95.1 to 123.1 and 61.5 to 67.3, respectively. Urinary protein levels decreased in all patients. It decreased >0.5 g/l in seven patients and reached the normal levels in three patients. The adverse events of telitacicept were manageable. Among the patients infected with COVID-19, three patients had fever, 10 patients remained asymptomatic and none of them exhibited severe respiratory syndromes. In this study, telitacicept effectively stabilized LN activity and alleviated the clinical symptoms of most patients. Furthermore, it reduced the dose of glucocorticoid and immunosuppressive medicines. Therefore, telitacicept may be a promising treatment option for individuals with lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhu
- Division of Nephrology, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Lishui, Zhejiang 323000, P.R. China
| | - Hui-Qian Hu
- Division of Nephrology, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Lishui, Zhejiang 323000, P.R. China
| | - Hui-Ling Wei
- Division of Nephrology, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Lishui, Zhejiang 323000, P.R. China
| | - De-Xin Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Lishui, Zhejiang 323000, P.R. China
| | - Hua Yang
- Division of Nephrology, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Lishui, Zhejiang 323000, P.R. China
| | - Qian-Kun Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Lishui, Zhejiang 323000, P.R. China
| | - Lie Jin
- Division of Nephrology, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Lishui, Zhejiang 323000, P.R. China
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Muto M, Suzuki H, Suzuki Y. New Insights and Future Perspectives of APRIL in IgA Nephropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:10340. [PMID: 39408691 PMCID: PMC11476402 DOI: 10.3390/ijms251910340] [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: 08/18/2024] [Revised: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is characterized by immune-mediated glomerulonephritis, with the accumulation of galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) in the glomeruli and increased levels of circulating Gd-IgA1 and Gd-IgA1-containing immune complexes. An incomplete understanding of the underlying mechanisms and differences in clinical and pathological features between individuals and ethnicities has contributed to the lack of established treatments for IgAN. A tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family member, a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), is a crucial cytokine essential for the generation and survival of plasma cells. Recent studies demonstrated that APRIL is a pivotal mediator in the production of Gd-IgA1 in IgAN. As our understanding of the autoimmune pathogenesis underlying IgAN has improved, various pharmacological therapeutic targets, including APRIL antagonists, have emerged. Preliminary results showed that APRIL-targeting agents effectively reduced proteinuria and Gd-IgA1 levels without significantly increasing adverse events, indicating their potential as novel therapeutic agents for IgAN. In the present review, we discuss the current understanding of the role of APRIL in the pathogenesis of IgAN and novel therapeutic strategies focusing on APRIL-targeting agents for IgAN. APRIL inhibitors may offer new hope to patients with IgAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Muto
- Department of Nephrology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (M.M.); (H.S.)
- Department of Nephrology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Suzuki
- Department of Nephrology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (M.M.); (H.S.)
- Department of Nephrology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Yusuke Suzuki
- Department of Nephrology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (M.M.); (H.S.)
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12
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Catapano F, Flossmann O, Del Vecchio L. Editorial: IgA nephropathy: a nephrologist's challenge in 2023. FRONTIERS IN NEPHROLOGY 2024; 4:1477350. [PMID: 39323970 PMCID: PMC11422340 DOI: 10.3389/fneph.2024.1477350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Fausta Catapano
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Hypertension Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Oliver Flossmann
- Berkshire Kidney Unit, Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Lucia Del Vecchio
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, ASST Lariana, San Fermo della Battaglia, Italy
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13
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Liu L, Liu Y, Li J, Tang C, Wang H, Chen C, Long H, Chen X, Xing G, Cheng J, Liang J, Peng X, Wang L, Shao S, Lin Y, Chen T, Tang Y, Shen S, Sun L, Wu H, Yu Y, Du X, Liu H, He L, Liu H, Ye M, Chen W, Wen Q, Zhang H, Cao H, Yuan J, Chen H, Wang M, Lv J, Zhang H. Efficacy and Safety of Telitacicept in IgA Nephropathy: A Retrospective, Multicenter Study. Nephron Clin Pract 2024:1-10. [PMID: 39250892 DOI: 10.1159/000540326] [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: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The efficacy of telitacicept treatment in reducing proteinuria in patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN) was indicated in a phase II clinical trial with small sample size. In this study, we conducted a large multicenter retrospective study to explore the efficacy and safety of telitacicept in patients with IgAN. METHODS This study recruited patients with IgAN from 19 sites from China who were treated with telitacicept and had been followed up at least once or with side effect reported, since April 1, 2021, to April 1, 2023. The primary outcomes of the study were the changing in proteinuria and eGFR over time. RESULTS A cohort of 97 patients with IgAN who were treated with telitacicept were recruited, with a median follow-up duration of 3 months. The median baseline proteinuria was 2.3 [1.3, 3.9] g/day and eGFR was 45.0 [26.8, 73.7] mL/min/1.73 m2. There was a significant reduction of proteinuria at 2, 4, 6 months when compared with baseline (2.3 [1.5, 4.1] vs. 1.5 [0.8, 2.3] g/day; 2.3 [1.1, 3.7] vs. 1.1 [0.6, 1.9] g/day; 2.1 [1.0, 2.7] vs. 0.9 [0.5, 1.7] g/day, all p values <0.01). The level of eGFR were comparable between at the baseline and 2, 4, 6 months of follow-up time (41.5 [29.7, 72.0] vs. 42.5 [28.8, 73.3] mL/min/1.73 m2; 41.0 [26.8, 67.7] vs. 44.7 [31.0, 67.8] mL/min/1.73 m2; 33.7 [24.0, 58.5] vs. 32.6 [27.8, 57.5] mL/min/1.73 m2, all p values >0.26). Telitacicept was well tolerated in the patients. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that telitacicept alone or on top of steroids therapy can significantly and safely reduce proteinuria in patients with IgAN. The long-term kidney protection still needs to be confirmed in large phase III trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Liu
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yimeng Liu
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Beijing, China,
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China,
| | - Juan Li
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Changzhi People's Hospital, Changzhi, China
| | - Chen Tang
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huiming Wang
- Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haibo Long
- Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaowen Chen
- Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guolan Xing
- The First Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingru Cheng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jianbo Liang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of GuangZhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Peng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of GuangZhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Yongqiang Lin
- Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wenzhou, China
| | - Tianmu Chen
- Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ying Tang
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Henglan Wu
- The First Hospital of JiaXing, Jiaxing, China
| | - Yuan Yu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of ChongQing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuanyi Du
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Hong Liu
- The Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liyu He
- The Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Foshan Hospital of TCM, Foshan, China
| | | | - Wei Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiong Wen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Foresea Life Insurance Guangzhou General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongmin Cao
- Foresea Life Insurance Guangzhou General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Hong Chen
- The Affiliated Hospital (Group) of PuTian University, Putian, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jicheng Lv
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Zeng L, Yang K, Wu Y, Yu G, Yan Y, Hao M, Song T, Li Y, Chen J, Sun L. Telitacicept: A novel horizon in targeting autoimmunity and rheumatic diseases. J Autoimmun 2024; 148:103291. [PMID: 39146891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2024.103291] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
BLyS and APRIL have the capability to bind to B cells within the body, allowing these cells to evade elimination when they should naturally be removed. While BLyS primarily plays a role in B cell development and maturation, APRIL is linked to B cell activation and the secretion of antibodies. Thus, in theory, inhibiting BLyS or APRIL could diminish the population of aberrant B cells that contribute to SLE and reduce disease activity in patients. Telitacicept functions by binding to and neutralizing the activities of both BLyS and APRIL, thus hindering the maturation and survival of plasma cells and fully developed B cells. The design of telitacicept is distinctive; it is not a monoclonal antibody but a TACI-Fc fusion protein generated through recombinant DNA technology. This fusion involves merging gene segments of the TACI protein, which can target BLyS/APRIL simultaneously, with the Fc gene segment of the human IgG protein. The TACI-Fc fusion protein exhibits the combined characteristics of both proteins. Currently utilized for autoimmune disease treatment, telitacicept is undergoing clinical investigations globally to assess its efficacy in managing various autoimmune conditions. This review consolidates information on the mechanistic actions, dosing regimens, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety profile of telitacicept-a dual-targeted biological agent. It integrates findings from prior experiments and pharmacokinetic analyses in the treatment of RA and SLE, striving to offer a comprehensive overview of telitacicept's research advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuting Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.
| | - Kailin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China; Psychosomatic laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Daqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Daqing, China.
| | - Yang Wu
- Department of Rheumatology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ganpeng Yu
- People's Hospital of Ningxiang City, Ningxiang, China
| | - Yexing Yan
- Psychosomatic laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Daqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Daqing, China
| | - Moujia Hao
- Psychosomatic laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Daqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Daqing, China
| | - Tian Song
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuwei Li
- School of Mathematics and Computational Science, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Hunan, China
| | - Junpeng Chen
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Psychosomatic laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Daqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Daqing, China; Tong Jiecheng Studio, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, China.
| | - Lingyun Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China; Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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15
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Mathur M, Sahay M, Pereira BJG, Rizk DV. State-of-Art Therapeutics in IgA Nephropathy. Indian J Nephrol 2024; 34:417-430. [PMID: 39372635 PMCID: PMC11450772 DOI: 10.25259/ijn_319_23] [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] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin-A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis in the world, with up to 40% of patients progressing to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) within 30 years of diagnosis. IgAN is characterized by elevated serum levels of galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1), which leads to immune complex formation and deposition in the glomerular mesangium, causing kidney injury. A diverse disease course and the long-term follow-up required for clinically relevant endpoints (e.g., ESKD) have been barriers to the development of novel therapies in IgAN. Disease management has focused on supportive care with inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin system and, more recently, sodium-glucose transporter inhibitors to control proteinuria. The recent acceptance of proteinuria as a surrogate endpoint by regulatory bodies and a better understanding of disease pathology have helped to initiate the development of several novel treatments. Subsequently, a targeted-release formulation of budesonide and a dual endothelin/angiotensin inhibitor (sparsentan) have received accelerated approval for patients with IgAN. However, additional therapies are needed to target the different pathogenic mechanisms and individualize patient care. Several compounds currently under investigation target various effectors of pathology. There are promising clinical results from emerging compounds that target the generation of Gd-IgA1 by B cells, including inhibitors of A PRoliferation-Inducing Ligand (APRIL) and dual inhibitors of APRIL and B-cell activating factor (BAFF). Other investigational therapies target the complement cascade by inhibiting proteins of the lectin or alternative pathways. As the therapeutic landscape evolves, it will be important to revise treatment guidelines and develop updated standards of care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manisha Sahay
- Department of Nephrology, Osmania General Hospital and Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Dana V. Rizk
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, USA
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16
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Zhang Y, Zhang H. Current understanding and new insights in the treatment of IgA nephropathy. Nephrology (Carlton) 2024; 29 Suppl 2:75-79. [PMID: 38958055 DOI: 10.1111/nep.14340] [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: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide, and almost all patients are at risk of progression to end-stage kidney disease within their lifetime. The mechanisms responsible for the presentation and development of IgAN are required for the development of highly targeted therapies for this disease. In this review, we first demonstrate the current treatment strategy of IgAN recommended by the 2021 KDIGO guideline. Then, we update the new insights into disease pathogenesis based on the well acknowledged 'multiple-hit hypothesis' and provide the potential therapeutic targets involved in the upstream production of pathogenic IgA1 and the downstream complement activation. Finally, the recent large randomized controlled trials focusing on these novel targets have been summarized, among which Nefecon and Sparsentan have received approval and Telitacicept have been used off-label for IgAN. In the future, emerging treatment approaches for IgAN is likely to evolve, which will signify a shift in the management of the IgAN from traditional immunosuppressive approaches to an era of targeted treatment based on the understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuemiao Zhang
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediated Kidney Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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17
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Barratt J, Lafayette RA, Floege J. Therapy of IgA nephropathy: time for a paradigm change. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1461879. [PMID: 39211339 PMCID: PMC11358106 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1461879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) often has a poor outcome, with many patients reaching kidney failure within their lifetime. Therefore, the primary goal for the treatment of IgAN should be to reduce nephron loss from the moment of diagnosis. To achieve this, IgAN must be recognized and treated as both a chronic kidney disease and an immunological disease. Agents that have received US Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency approval for the treatment of IgAN include modified-release/targeted-release formulation budesonide (Nefecon) and sparsentan, a selective dual endothelin-A and angiotensin II receptor type 1 antagonist. Other agents, including selective endothelin receptor antagonists, selective or combined APRIL and BAFF antagonists, and a vast array of complement inhibitors are being investigated for the treatment of IgAN. Furthermore, treatment combinations are also being studied, including sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors with endothelin receptor antagonists. Due to the complexity of IgAN, combination treatment, rather than a single-agent approach, may provide maximum benefit. With the number of treatments for IgAN likely to increase, combinations allowing safe and effective treatment to halt progression to kidney failure seem within grasp. While trials evaluating combinations are ongoing, more are needed to pave the way for a comprehensive IgAN treatment strategy. Furthermore, an approach to IgAN treatment in which agents are combined early to achieve rapid induction of remission and prevent unnecessary and irreversible nephron loss is required. Following remission, treatments may be adjusted and stripped back as necessary in the maintenance phase with close monitoring. This review discusses the current status of IgAN treatment and explores future strategies to improve outcomes for patients with IgAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester and Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A. Lafayette
- Division of Nephrology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Jürgen Floege
- Division of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Department of Cardiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
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18
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Filippone EJ, Gulati R, Farber JL. Contemporary review of IgA nephropathy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1436923. [PMID: 39188719 PMCID: PMC11345586 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1436923] [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: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is considered the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide with a predilection for Asian-Pacific populations and relative rarity in those of African descent. Perhaps 20%-50% of patients progress to kidney failure. The pathogenesis is incompletely understood. Mesangial deposition of immune complexes containing galactose-deficient IgA1 complexed with anti-glycan IgG or IgA antibodies results in mesangial cell activation and proliferation, inflammatory cell recruitment, complement activation, and podocyte damage. Diagnosis requires a biopsy interpreted by the Oxford criteria. Additional pathologic features include podocytopathy, thrombotic microangiopathy, and C4d staining. Biomarkers predicting adverse outcomes include proteinuria, reduced GFR, hypertension, and pathology. Acceptable surrogate endpoints for therapeutic trials include ongoing proteinuria and rate of eGFR decline. The significance of persisting hematuria remains uncertain. The mainstay of therapy is supportive, consisting of lifestyle modifications, renin-angiotensin inhibition (if hypertensive or proteinuric), sodium-glucose-transporter 2 inhibition (if GFR reduced or proteinuric), and endothelin-receptor antagonism (if proteinuric). Immunosuppression should be considered for those at high risk after maximal supportive care. Corticosteroids are controversial with the most positive results observed in Chinese. They carry a high risk of serious side effects. Similarly, mycophenolate may be most effective in Chinese. Other immunosuppressants are of uncertain benefit. Tonsillectomy appears efficacious in Japanese. Active areas of investigation include B-cell inhibition with agents targeting the survival factors BAFF and APRIL and complement inhibition with agents targeting the alternate pathway (Factors B and D), the lectin pathway (MASP-2), and the common pathway (C3 and C5). Hopefully soon, the who and the how of immunosuppression will be clarified, and kidney failure can be forestalled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J. Filippone
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Rakesh Gulati
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - John L. Farber
- Department of Pathology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Barratt J, Kristensen J, Pedersen C, Jerling M. Insights on Nefecon ®, a Targeted-Release Formulation of Budesonide and Its Selective Immunomodulatory Effects in Patients with IgA Nephropathy. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:3415-3428. [PMID: 39100224 PMCID: PMC11298173 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s383138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is a chronic, immune-mediated kidney disease characterized by the deposition of galactose-deficient immunoglobulin A1 (Gd-IgA1) in the kidneys. Excess Gd-IgA1 production in patients with IgAN is located within the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, particularly within the lamina propria in the distal ileum. Nefecon® is a targeted-release formulation of the corticosteroid budesonide, which became the first treatment approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA; brand name, TARPEYO®) and European Medicines Agency (EMA; KINPEYGO®) for patients with primary IgAN at risk of rapid disease progression, after demonstrating clinically significant reduction of proteinuria in an interim analysis of the Phase III NefIgArd trial. After showing a significant reduction in estimated glomerular filtration rate decline in the full 2-year analysis of the trial, Nefecon was granted full approval by the FDA to reduce the loss of kidney function. Nefecon was specifically designed to deliver budesonide to the distal ileum, selectively targeting excess Gd-IgA1 production in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue. In this review, we describe the properties of Nefecon and the evidence to date that confirms its localized treatment effect. We also present unpublished evidence from Phase I trials investigating the pharmacokinetics and cortisol suppression effects of Nefecon in healthy participants. These studies demonstrated that Nefecon has a distinct pharmacokinetic profile from other budesonide products, allowing for targeted, localized action in the distal ileum. When considered alongside existing clinical trial data showing the effect of Nefecon on gut-associated biomarkers, available evidence indicates that Nefecon has a selective immunomodulatory mechanism of action and a direct disease-modifying effect in patients with IgAN, while having low systemic exposure and adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Barratt
- College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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Trivioli G, Peyronel F, Vaglio A. The new generation of B cell-targeting therapies for the treatment of autoimmune kidney diseases. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2024; 39:1210-1213. [PMID: 38111254 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfad265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Trivioli
- Department of Nephrology, Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Peyronel
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Firenze, Italy
| | - Augusto Vaglio
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Firenze, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Firenze, Firenze, Italy
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21
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Gan MY, Chua FZY, Chang ZY, Chua YT, Chan GC. Navigating Adult-Onset IgA Vasculitis-Associated Nephritis. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:930. [PMID: 39202674 PMCID: PMC11355272 DOI: 10.3390/life14080930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW IgA vasculitis (IgAV), formerly Henoch-Schonlein purpura, is the most common systemic vasculitis in childhood. In adults, however, this condition is poorly understood, yet associated with more severe disease and poorer outcomes. This necessitates the need for early diagnosis and management. SCOPE OF REVIEW We describe the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of IgAV in adults. Poor outcomes are often due to the high frequency of glomerulonephritis in IgAV-IgA vasculitis-associated nephritis (IgAVN). We hence also aim to summarize the latest clinical data regarding treatment strategies in IgAVN. The diagnosis and differentiation in histology between IgAVN and IgA nephropathy (IgAN) remain a challenge. Review of treatment therapies: Pathological mechanisms between IgAVN and IgAN appear to be consistent between the two, and data from IgAN are often extrapolated to IgAVN. The role of various immunosuppression therapies remains controversial, and in this review, we will discuss immunosuppression use and highlight evidence surrounding emerging and promising novel therapies in IgAVN/IgAN. Our aim for this review is to guide future treatment strategies and direct future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Ying Gan
- Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Freda Zhi Yun Chua
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Zi Yun Chang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
- National University Centre for Organ Transplantation, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Yan Ting Chua
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Gek Cher Chan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
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Roberts LE, Williams CEC, Oni L, Barratt J, Selvaskandan H. IgA Nephropathy: Emerging Mechanisms of Disease. Indian J Nephrol 2024; 34:297-309. [PMID: 39156850 PMCID: PMC11326799 DOI: 10.25259/ijn_425_23] [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] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis reported across the world and is characterized by immunoglobulin A (IgA) dominant mesangial deposits, which are poorly O-glycosylated. This deposition leads to a cascade of glomerular and tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis, which can progress to chronic kidney disease. The variability in rate of progression reflects the many genetic and environmental factors that drive IgAN. Here, we summarize the contemporary understanding of the disease mechanisms that drive IgAN and provide an overview of new and emerging therapies, which target these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia E Roberts
- John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Chloe E C Williams
- Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospital Trusts, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Oni
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Haresh Selvaskandan
- John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
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23
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Kim D, Lv J, Hladunewich M, Jha V, Hooi LS, Monaghan H, Shan S, Reich HN, Barbour S, Billot L, Zhang H, Perkovic V, Wong MG. The Efficacy and Safety of Reduced-Dose Oral Methylprednisolone in High-Risk Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy. Kidney Int Rep 2024; 9:2168-2179. [PMID: 39081761 PMCID: PMC11284425 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2024.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The therapeutic effects of steroids in immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) global (TESTING) study reported that methylprednisolone reduces the risk of major kidney events in individuals with IgAN at high risk of disease progression compared to supportive care alone but is associated with increased serious adverse events (SAEs) primarily with full-dose therapy. The risk benefit balance of the reduced-dose methylprednisolone regimen is examined in this prespecified analysis of the reduced-dose cohort of the TESTING trial. Methods Between 2017 and 2019, patients with IgAN, proteinuria ≥1 g/d despite 3 months of renin-angiotensin-system blockade and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 30 to 120 ml/min per 1.73 m2 were randomized to reduced-dose methylprednisolone 0.4 mg/kg/d or placebo. The primary outcome was a composite of a 40% eGFR decline, kidney failure, or death due to kidney disease. Results A total of 241 participants were randomized and followed-up with for a median of 2.5 years (mean age: 37 years; baseline eGFR: 65 ml/min per 1.73 m2; proteinuria: 2.48 g/d). Methylprednisolone was associated with fewer primary outcome events compared to placebo (7/121 vs. 22/120; hazard ratio [HR]: 0.24; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.10-0.58, P = 0.002), lowered proteinuria, and reduced eGFR rate of decline from baseline. The mean difference between methylprednisolone and placebo in proteinuria and eGFR from baseline was -1.15 g/d and 7.9 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (P < 0.001) at 12 months, respectively; however, these benefits were lost over time. There were 7 versus 3 SAEs in the methylprednisolone versus placebo group (HR: 1.97; 95% CI: 0.49-7.90), including 5 versus 2 infections. Conclusion Reduced-dose methylprednisolone is effective in improving kidney outcomes in high risk IgAN; however, it is associated with a modestly higher number of SAEs compared to placebo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Kim
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jicheng Lv
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Michelle Hladunewich
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vivekanand Jha
- The George Institute for Global Health India, UNSW, New Delhi, India
- Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
- The George Institute for Global Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, UK
| | | | - Helen Monaghan
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sana Shan
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Heather N. Reich
- Division of Nephrology, University Health Network, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sean Barbour
- Division of Nephrology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Laurent Billot
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hong Zhang
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Vlado Perkovic
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Muh Geot Wong
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Renal Medicine, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Australia
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Lafayette R, Barbour S, Israni R, Wei X, Eren N, Floege J, Jha V, Kim SG, Maes B, Phoon RKS, Singh H, Tesař V, Lin CJF, Barratt J. A phase 2b, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of atacicept for treatment of IgA nephropathy. Kidney Int 2024; 105:1306-1315. [PMID: 38552841 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2024.03.012] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Atacicept is a first-in-class, dual anti-B-cell Activation Factor-A Proliferation-Inducing Ligand fusion protein in clinical evaluation for treatment of IgA nephropathy. To compare efficacy and safety of atacicept versus placebo in patients with IgAN, this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2b clinical trial ORIGIN enrolled 116 individuals with biopsy-proven IgA nephropathy. Participants were randomized to atacicept 150, 75, or 25 mg versus placebo once weekly for up to 36 weeks. Primary and key secondary endpoints were changes in urine protein creatinine ratio based on 24-hour urine collection at weeks 24 and 36, respectively, in the combined atacicept 150 mg and 75 mg group versus placebo. The primary endpoint was met at week 24 as the mean urine protein creatinine ratio was reduced from baseline by 31% in the combined atacicept group versus 8% with placebo, resulting in a significant 25% reduction with atacicept versus placebo. At week 36, the key secondary endpoint was met as the mean urine protein creatinine ratio reduced from baseline by 34% in the combined atacicept group versus a 2% increase with placebo, resulting in a significant 35% reduction with atacicept versus placebo. The reduction in proteinuria was accompanied by stabilization in endpoint eGFR with atacicept compared to a decline with placebo at week 36, resulting in significant between-group geometric mean difference of 11%, approximating an absolute difference of 5.7 mL/min/1.73m2. Endpoint galactose deficient IgA1 levels significantly decreased from baseline by 60% versus placebo. The safety profile of atacicept was like placebo. Thus, our results provide evidence to support a pivotal, phase 3 study of atacicept in IgA nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Lafayette
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Sean Barbour
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Rubeen Israni
- Clinical Development, Vera Therapeutics, Inc., Brisbane, California, USA
| | - Xuelian Wei
- Biostatistics, Vera Therapeutics, Inc., Brisbane, California, USA
| | - Necmi Eren
- Department of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Jürgen Floege
- Department of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, Rheinisch Westfälische Technische Hochschule, Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Vivekanand Jha
- The George Institute for Global Health India, New Delhi, India; Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK; Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Sung Gyun Kim
- Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Korea
| | - Bart Maes
- Department of Nephrology, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium
| | - Richard K S Phoon
- Westmead Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Vladimír Tesař
- Department of Nephrology, First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Celia J F Lin
- Medical, Vera Therapeutics, Inc., Brisbane, California, USA
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medicine Biological Sciences and Psychology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.
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Doggrell SA. Sibeprenlimab, which neutralizes A PRoliferation Inducing Ligand (APRIL), as a new approach to treating IgA nephropathy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2024; 24:335-338. [PMID: 38641998 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2024.2346111] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy is a common immune-mediated kidney disease leading to high blood pressure and may progress to kidney failure. None of the present treatments are disease-modifying or prolong life. The levels of A PRoliferation Inducing Ligand (APRIL) are raised in subjects with IgA nephropathy. Sibeprenlimab is a humanized IgG2 monoclonal antibody that binds to, and neutralizes, APRIL. AREAS COVERED A phase 2 clinical trial of intravenous sibeprenlimab (VIS649) in IgA nephropathy: NCT04287985. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change from baseline in 24-h protein-to-creatinine ratio at 12 months, and this was reduced by sibeprenlimab. Sibeprenlimab also caused clinical remission in some subjects, stabilized estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and reduced galactose deficient IgA1, IgA, IgM, and IgG levels without causing any infections or other adverse events. EXPERT OPINION Sibeprenlimab is a promising new approach to treating IgA nephropathy. The pharmaceutical company behind sibeprenlimab is also developing it for subcutaneous use, which would have advantages over intravenous use. As IgA nephropathy is a long-term progressive disease, key questions that need to be answered, over a long-time course, with sibeprenlimab are (i) whether its safety is maintained, and (ii) whether it improves clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila A Doggrell
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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26
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Del Vecchio L, Allinovi M, Comolli S, Peiti S, Rimoldi C, Locatelli F. Drugs in Development to Treat IgA Nephropathy. Drugs 2024; 84:503-525. [PMID: 38777962 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-024-02036-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
IgA nephropathy is a common glomerulonephritis consequent to the autoimmune response to aberrant glycosylated immunoglobulin (Ig) A antibodies. Although it has historically been considered a benign disease, it has since become clear that a substantial percentage of patients reach end-stage kidney failure over the years. Several therapeutic attempts have been proposed, with systemic steroids being the most prevalent, albeit burdened by possible serious adverse events. Thanks to the more in-depth knowledge of the pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy, new treatment targets have been identified and new drugs developed. In this narrative review, we summarise the molecules under clinical development for the treatment of IgA nephropathy. As a search strategy, we used PubMed, Google, ClinicalTrials.gov and abstracts from recent international congresses. TRF budesonide and sparsentan are the two molecules at a more advanced stage, just entering the market. Other promising agents are undergoing phase III clinical development. These include anti-APRIL and anti-BLyS/BAFF antibodies and some complement inhibitors. Other new possible strategies include spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitors, anti-CD40 ligands and anti-CD38 antibodies. In an era increasingly characterised by 'personalised medicine' and 'precision therapy' approaches and considering that the potential therapeutic armamentarium for IgA nephropathy will be very broad in the near future, the identification of biomarkers capable of helping the nephrologist to select the right drug for the right patient should be the focus of future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Allinovi
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefania Comolli
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Silvia Peiti
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, ASST Lariana, Como, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Locatelli
- Past Director of the Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, ASST Lecco, Lecco, Italy
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Obrișcă B, Mocanu V, Jurubiță R, Vrabie A, Berechet A, Lujinschi Ș, Sorohan B, Andronesi A, Achim C, Lupușoru G, Micu G, Caceaune N, Gherghiceanu M, Ismail G. Histological reappraisal of IgA nephropathy: the role of glomerular pattern of injury and mesangial complement deposition. BMC Nephrol 2024; 25:145. [PMID: 38658875 PMCID: PMC11040743 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-024-03577-z] [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: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a clear need to refine the histological assessment in IgA Nephropathy (IgAN). We sought to investigate the clinical significance of the light microscopy (LM) pattern of glomerular injury and of the intensity of mesangial C3 staining in IgAN. METHODS We conducted a retrospective, observational study that included all patients with biopsy-proven primary IgAN that had at least 12 months of follow-up. The LM pattern of glomerular injury was reevaluated based on a modified HAAS classification. Mesangial C3 deposition by immunofluorescence (IF) staining was scored semi-quantitatively. The study primary composite endpoint was defined as doubling of serum creatinine or ESRD (dialysis, renal transplant or eGFR < 15 ml/min). The secondary study endpoint was eGFR decline per year. RESULTS This cohort included 214 patients with IgAN (mean age, 41.4 ± 12.6 years), with a mean eGFR and median 24-h proteinuria of 55.2 ± 31.5 ml/min/1.73m2 and 1.5 g/day (IQR:0.8-3.25), respectively. The most frequent LM pattern was the mesangioproliferative (37.4%), followed by the sclerotic (22.5%) and proliferative/necrotizing patterns (21.4%). Regarding the IF findings, mild-moderate and intense mesangial C3 staining was present in 30.6% and 61.1% of patients, respectively. Those with sclerosing and crescentic patterns had the worst renal survival (5-year renal survival of 48.8% and 42.9%) and the highest rate of eGFR change/year (-2.32 ml/min/y and - 2.16 ml/min/y, respectively) compared to those with other glomerular patterns of injury. In addition, those with intense C3 staining reached the composite endpoint more frequently compared to those without intense C3 staining (35.5% vs. 21.4%, p = 0.04). After multivariate adjustment, patients with crescentic and sclerosing patterns had a 3.6-fold and 2.1-fold higher risk for the composite endpoint compared to those with mesangioproliferative pattern, while an intense mesangial C3 deposition being also associated with a worse renal outcome (HR, 3.33; 95%CI, 1.21-9.2). CONCLUSIONS We have shown that the LM pattern of glomerular injury and the intensity of mesangial C3 deposition might stratify more accurately the renal outcome in patients with IgAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Obrișcă
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Valentin Mocanu
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Roxana Jurubiță
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandra Vrabie
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Berechet
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ștefan Lujinschi
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Sorohan
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Andronesi
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Camelia Achim
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Gabriela Lupușoru
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Georgia Micu
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicu Caceaune
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Gherghiceanu
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- "Victor Babes" National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Gener Ismail
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
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Chiarenza DS, Verrina EE, La Porta E, Caridi G, Ghiggeri GM, Mortari G, Lugani F, Angeletti A, Bigatti C. Biologics and Non-Biologics Immunosuppressive Treatments for IgA Nephropathy in Both Adults and Children. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2465. [PMID: 38730994 PMCID: PMC11084942 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13092465] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy represents the most prevalent cause of glomerulonephritis worldwide and may lead to renal failure in a relevant number of cases in both paediatric and adult subjects. Although their pathogenesis is still largely unclear, evidence of immune abnormalities provides the background for the use of immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and antiproliferative and alkylating agents. Unfortunately, these treatments fail to achieve a sustained remission in a significant percentage of affected patients and are burdened by significant toxicities. Recent developments of new biologics, including anti-BAFF/APRIL inhibitors and molecules targeting complement components, offered the opportunity to selectively target immune cell subsets or activation pathways, leading to more effective and safer hypothesis-driven treatments. However, studies testing new biologic agents in IgAN should also consider paediatric populations to address the unique needs of children and close the therapeutic gap between adult and paediatric care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Andrea Angeletti
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (D.S.C.); (E.E.V.); (E.L.P.); (G.C.); (G.M.G.); (G.M.); (F.L.); (C.B.)
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Provenzano M, Hu L, Tringali E, Senatore M, Talarico R, Di Dio M, Ruotolo C, La Manna G, Garofalo C, Zaza G. Improving Kidney Disease Care: One Giant Leap for Nephrology. Biomedicines 2024; 12:828. [PMID: 38672183 PMCID: PMC11048002 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040828] [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: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Nephrology is an ever-evolving field of medicine. The importance of such a discipline is related to the high clinical impact of kidney disease. In fact, abnormalities of kidney function and/or structure are common in the general population, reaching an overall prevalence of about 10%. More importantly, the onset of kidney damage is related to a strikingly high risk of cardiovascular events, mortality, and progression to kidney failure which, in turn, compromises quality and duration of life. Attempts to comprehend the pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms involved in kidney disease occurrence have prompted the development and implementation of novel drugs in clinical practice with the aim of treating the 'specific cause' of kidney disease (including chronic kidney disease, glomerular disease, and genetic kidney disorders) and the main immunological complications following kidney transplantation. Herein, we provide an overview of the principal emerging drug classes with proved efficacy in the context of the aforementioned clinical conditions. This can represent a simplified guide for clinical nephrologists to remind them of the vast and heterogeneous armamentarium of drugs that should be used in the present and the future to improve the management of patients suffering from kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Provenzano
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Lilio Hu
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.H.); (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Edoardo Tringali
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.H.); (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Senatore
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Roberta Talarico
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Michele Di Dio
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, SS Annunziata Hospital, 87100 Cosenza, Italy;
| | - Chiara Ruotolo
- Unit of Nephrology, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (C.R.); (C.G.)
| | - Gaetano La Manna
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.H.); (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Garofalo
- Unit of Nephrology, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (C.R.); (C.G.)
| | - Gianluigi Zaza
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.S.); (R.T.)
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Ji L, Geng Y, Zhang X, Deng X, Song Z, Tan M, Tan Y, Qu C, Zhang Z. B cell pathway dual inhibition for systemic lupus erythematosus: a prospective single-arm cohort study of telitacicept. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e515. [PMID: 38525109 PMCID: PMC10960726 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease associated with B-cell hyperactivity. Telitacicept is a transmembrane activator, calcium modulator, and cyclophilin ligand interactor-Fc fusion protein, which can neutralize both B-cell lymphocyte stimulator and a proliferation-inducing ligand. Patients with active SLE who received telitacicept were prospectively followed at month 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 after telitacicept initiation. Thirty-seven participants were involved and followed for 6.00 [3.00, 6.00] months. SRI-4 rate at month 6 was 44.7%. The median dosage of prednisone was decreased by 43.8% (from 10 to 5.62 mg/d) at month 6. The anti-dsDNA level was significantly decreased, while complement levels were significantly increased at month 6 from baseline. Continuously significant reductions in serum immunoglobin (Ig)G IgA, and IgM levels were also observed. Patients experienced significant decreases in the numbers of total and naive B cells, whereas memory B cells and T cell populations did not change. The number of NK cells was significantly increased during the follow-up. At month 6, 58.3% (14 out of 24) patients experienced improved fatigue accessed by FACIT-Fatigue score exceeding the minimum clinically important difference of 4. Most adverse events were mild, but one each case of severe hypogammaglobulinemia, psychosis with suicidal behavior, and B-cell lymphoma were occurred. In our first prospective real-world study, telitacicept treatment led to a significant clinical and laboratory improvement of disease activity, as well as fatigue amelioration in patients with SLE. Safety profile was favorable overall, but more studies are greatly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Ji
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical ImmunologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune DiseasesBeijingChina
| | - Yan Geng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical ImmunologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune DiseasesBeijingChina
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical ImmunologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune DiseasesBeijingChina
| | - Xuerong Deng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical ImmunologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune DiseasesBeijingChina
| | - Zhibo Song
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical ImmunologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune DiseasesBeijingChina
| | - Meng Tan
- Department of NephrologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Ying Tan
- Department of NephrologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Chenxue Qu
- Department of Laboratory MedicinePeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Zhuoli Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical ImmunologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune DiseasesBeijingChina
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Zan J, Liu L, Li G, Zheng H, Chen N, Wang C, Xie D, Zuo L, Li R, Zhang P, Wang Y, Wang W, Li L, Fang J, Lv J, Zhang H. Effect of Telitacicept on Circulating Gd-IgA1 and IgA-Containing Immune Complexes in IgA Nephropathy. Kidney Int Rep 2024; 9:1067-1071. [PMID: 38765591 PMCID: PMC11101733 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2024.01.003] [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] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Telitacicept, a transmembrane activator and cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI) fusion protein targeting B cell activating factor and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), has proven efficacy in treating Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN). However, serum biomarkers that could predict the clinical response during the treatment remain unclear. Methods Plasma samples from 24 participants in the phase 2 clinical trial were collected at baseline and after 4, 12, and 24 weeks; with 8 participants in the placebo group, 9 in the 160 mg group, and 7 in the 240 mg group. We measured the levels of galactose-deficient-IgA1 (Gd-IgA1), IgA-containing immune complexes, C3a, C5a, and sC5b-9. The association between the changes in these markers and proteinuria reduction was analyzed. Results After 24 weeks of treatment, Gd-IgA1 decreased by 43.9% (95% confidence interval: 29.8%, 55.1%), IgG-IgA immune complex by 31.7% (14.4%, 45.5%), and poly-IgA immune complex by 41.3% (6.5%, 63.1%) in the 160 mg group; Gd-IgA1 decreased by 50.4% (38.6%, 59.9%), IgG-IgA immune complex decreased by 42.7% (29.5%, 53.4%), and poly-IgA immune complex decreased by 67.2% (48.5%,79.1%) in the 240 mg group. There were no significant changes in the circulatory C3a, C5a, or sC5b-9 levels during telitacicept treatment. Decreases in both plasma Gd-IgA1 and IgG-IgA or poly-IgA immune complexes were associated with proteinuria reduction. In turn, IgG-IgA or poly-IgA immune complexes showed a dose-dependent effect, consistent with proteinuria reduction during telitacicept treatment. Conclusion Telitacicept lowered both circulating Gd-IgA1 and IgA-containing immune complexes, whereas IgA immune complex levels were more consistent with decreased proteinuria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jincan Zan
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital Peking University Institute of Nephrology Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education. Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediate Kidney Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Liu
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital Peking University Institute of Nephrology Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education. Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediate Kidney Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guisen Li
- Renal Division and Institute of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongguang Zheng
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
| | - Nan Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Institute of Nephrology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Caili Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospitals of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, China
| | - Deqiong Xie
- Division of Nephrology, The Second People’s Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, China
| | - Li Zuo
- Department of Nephrology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rongshan Li
- Department of Nephrology, Shanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Shanxi, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | - Lin Li
- RemeGen Co., Ltd., Yantai Shandong, China
| | - Jianmin Fang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jicheng Lv
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital Peking University Institute of Nephrology Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education. Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediate Kidney Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital Peking University Institute of Nephrology Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education. Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediate Kidney Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Zhuang Y, Lu H, Li J. Advances in the treatment of IgA nephropathy with biological agents. Chronic Dis Transl Med 2024; 10:1-11. [PMID: 38450299 PMCID: PMC10914012 DOI: 10.1002/cdt3.104] [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] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerular disease, and the "four-hit" theory represents its currently accepted pathogenic mechanism. Mucosal immunity triggered by infections in the respiratory tract, intestines, or other areas leads to antigen presentation, T cell stimulation, B cell maturation, and the production of IgA-producing plasma cells. The proteins B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) are involved in this process, and alternative complement and lectin pathway activation are also part of the pathogenic mechanism. Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guidelines indicate that a specific effective treatment for IgAN is lacking, with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors being the primary therapy. Recent research shows that biological agents can significantly reduce proteinuria, stabilize the estimated glomerular filtration rate, and reverse some pathological changes, such as endocapillary proliferation and crescent formation. There are four main categories of biological agents used to treat IgA nephropathy, specifically anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, anti-BLyS or APRIL monoclonal antibodies, monoclonal antibodies targeting both BLyS and APRIL (telitacicept and atacicept), and monoclonal antibodies inhibiting complement system activation (narsoplimab and eculizumab). However, further research on the dosages, treatment duration, long-term efficacy, and safety of these biological agents is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongze Zhuang
- Department of Nephrology, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, PLA, Fuzhou General Clinical Medical CollegeFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouFujianChina
| | - Hailing Lu
- Department of Nephrology, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, PLA, Fuzhou General Clinical Medical CollegeFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouFujianChina
| | - Junxia Li
- Department of Nephrology, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, PLA, Fuzhou General Clinical Medical CollegeFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouFujianChina
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Lim RS, Yeo SC, Barratt J, Rizk DV. An Update on Current Therapeutic Options in IgA Nephropathy. J Clin Med 2024; 13:947. [PMID: 38398259 PMCID: PMC10889409 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13040947] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) remains the leading cause of primary glomerular disease worldwide. Outcomes are poor with high rates of progressive chronic kidney disease and kidney failure, which contributes to global healthcare costs. Although this disease entity has been described, there were no disease-specific treatments until recently, with the current standard of care focusing on optimal supportive measures including lifestyle modifications and optimization of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone blockade. However, with significant advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of IgAN in the past decade, and the acceptance of surrogate outcomes for accelerated drug approval, there have been many new investigational agents tested to target this disease. As these agents become available, we envision a multi-pronged treatment strategy that simultaneously targets the consequences of ongoing nephron loss, stopping any glomerular inflammation, inhibiting pro-fibrotic signals in the glomerulus and tubulo-interstitium, and inhibiting the production of pathogenic IgA molecules. This review is an update on a previous review published in 2021, and we aim to summarize the developments and updates in therapeutic strategies in IgAN and highlight the promising discoveries that are likely to add to our armamentarium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Shaoying Lim
- Department of Renal Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore; (R.S.L.); (S.C.Y.)
| | - See Cheng Yeo
- Department of Renal Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore; (R.S.L.); (S.C.Y.)
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK;
- John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester LE5 4PW, UK
| | - Dana V. Rizk
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, ZRB 614, 1720 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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Di Leo V, Annese F, Papadia F, Russo MS, Giliberti M, Sallustio F, Gesualdo L. Refractory IgA Nephropathy: A Challenge for Future Nephrologists. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:274. [PMID: 38399561 PMCID: PMC10890070 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60020274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) represents the most prevalent form of primary glomerulonephritis, and, on a global scale, it ranks among the leading culprits behind end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Presently, the primary strategy for managing IgAN revolves around optimizing blood pressure and mitigating proteinuria. This is achieved through the utilization of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors, namely, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). As outlined by the KDIGO guidelines, individuals who continue to show a persistent high risk of progressive ESKD, even with comprehensive supportive care, are candidates for glucocorticoid therapy. Despite these therapies, some patients have a disease refractory to treatment, defined as individuals that present a 24 h urinary protein persistently >1 g after at least two rounds of regular steroids (methylprednisolone or prednisone) and/or immunosuppressant therapy (e.g., mycophenolate mofetil), or who do not tolerate regular steroids and/or immunosuppressant therapy. The aim of this Systematic Review is to revise the current literature, using the biomedical database PubMed, to investigate possible therapeutic strategies, including SGLT2 inhibitors, endothelin receptor blockers, targeted-release budesonide, B cell proliferation and differentiation inhibitors, fecal microbiota transplantation, as well as blockade of complement components.
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Cheung CK, Barratt J, Liew A, Zhang H, Tesar V, Lafayette R. The role of BAFF and APRIL in IgA nephropathy: pathogenic mechanisms and targeted therapies. FRONTIERS IN NEPHROLOGY 2024; 3:1346769. [PMID: 38362118 PMCID: PMC10867227 DOI: 10.3389/fneph.2023.1346769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), characterized by mesangial deposition of galactose-deficient-IgA1 (Gd-IgA1), is the most common biopsy-proven primary glomerulonephritis worldwide. Recently, an improved understanding of its underlying pathogenesis and the substantial risk of progression to kidney failure has emerged. The "four-hit hypothesis" of IgAN pathogenesis outlines a process that begins with elevated circulating levels of Gd-IgA1 that trigger autoantibody production. This results in the formation and deposition of immune complexes in the mesangium, leading to inflammation and kidney injury. Key mediators of the production of Gd-IgA1 and its corresponding autoantibodies are B-cell activating factor (BAFF), and A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), each playing essential roles in the survival and maintenance of B cells and humoral immunity. Elevated serum levels of both BAFF and APRIL are observed in patients with IgAN and correlate with disease severity. This review explores the complex pathogenesis of IgAN, highlighting the pivotal roles of BAFF and APRIL in the interplay between mucosal hyper-responsiveness, B-cell activation, and the consequent overproduction of Gd-IgA1 and its autoantibodies that are key features in this disease. Finally, the potential therapeutic benefits of inhibiting BAFF and APRIL in IgAN, and a summary of recent clinical trial data, will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chee Kay Cheung
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester National Health Service (NHS) Trust, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester National Health Service (NHS) Trust, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Liew
- The Kidney & Transplant Practice, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore
| | - Hong Zhang
- Renal Division in the Department of Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Vladimir Tesar
- Department of Nephrology, First School of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Richard Lafayette
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
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Zhang Z, Wang Z, Du X, Huang X, Zhang Y. Refractory generalized myasthenia gravis treated successfully with telitacicept: two cases report. J Neurol 2024; 271:584-588. [PMID: 37804335 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12036-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhouao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Zhouyi Wang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xue Du
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyu Huang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Yeo SC, Barratt J. The contribution of a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) and other TNF superfamily members in pathogenesis and progression of IgA nephropathy. Clin Kidney J 2023; 16:ii9-ii18. [PMID: 38053976 PMCID: PMC10695512 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfad200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) have led to the identification of novel therapeutic targets and potential disease-specific treatments. Specifically, a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of IgAN, mediating B-cell dysregulation and overproduction of pathogenic galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1). Animal and clinical studies support the involvement of APRIL in the pathogenesis and progression of IgAN. An elevated level of APRIL is found in IgAN when compared with controls, which correlates with the level of Gd-IgA1 and associates with more severe disease presentation and worse outcomes. Conversely, anti-APRIL therapy reduces pathogenic Gd-IgA1 and IgA immune complex formation and ameliorates the severity of kidney inflammation and injury. Genome-wide association studies in IgAN have identified TNFSF13 and TNFRSF13B, a cytokine ligand-receptor gene pair encoding APRIL and its receptor, respectively, as risk susceptibility loci in IgAN, further supporting the causal role of the APRIL signalling pathway in IgAN. Several novel experimental agents targeting APRIL, including atacicept, telitacicept, zigakibart and sibeprenlimab, are currently under investigation as potential therapies in IgAN. Preliminary results suggest that these agents are well-tolerated, and reduce levels of Gd-IgA1, with corresponding improvement in proteinuria. Further studies are ongoing to confirm the safety and efficacy of anti-APRIL approaches as an effective therapeutic strategy in IgAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- See Cheng Yeo
- Department of Renal Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
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Stamellou E, Seikrit C, Tang SCW, Boor P, Tesař V, Floege J, Barratt J, Kramann R. IgA nephropathy. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2023; 9:67. [PMID: 38036542 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-023-00476-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
IgA nephropathy (IgAN), the most prevalent primary glomerulonephritis worldwide, carries a considerable lifetime risk of kidney failure. Clinical manifestations of IgAN vary from asymptomatic with microscopic or intermittent macroscopic haematuria and stable kidney function to rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. IgAN has been proposed to develop through a 'four-hit' process, commencing with overproduction and increased systemic presence of poorly O-glycosylated galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1), followed by recognition of Gd-IgA1 by antiglycan autoantibodies, aggregation of Gd-IgA1 and formation of polymeric IgA1 immune complexes and, lastly, deposition of these immune complexes in the glomerular mesangium, leading to kidney inflammation and scarring. IgAN can only be diagnosed by kidney biopsy. Extensive, optimized supportive care is the mainstay of therapy for patients with IgAN. For those at high risk of disease progression, the 2021 KDIGO Clinical Practice Guideline suggests considering a 6-month course of systemic corticosteroid therapy; however, the efficacy of systemic steroid treatment is under debate and serious adverse effects are common. Advances in understanding the pathophysiology of IgAN have led to clinical trials of novel targeted therapies with acceptable safety profiles, including SGLT2 inhibitors, endothelin receptor blockers, targeted-release budesonide, B cell proliferation and differentiation inhibitors, as well as blockade of complement components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Stamellou
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
- Department of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Claudia Seikrit
- Department of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sydney C W Tang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Peter Boor
- Department of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Vladimir Tesař
- Department of Nephrology, 1st Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jürgen Floege
- Department of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Rafael Kramann
- Department of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
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Jin HZ, Li YJ, Wang X, Li Z, Ma B, Niu L, Wang P, Pan HF, Li SD, Bao W, Wang G, Li XM, Chen Z. Efficacy and safety of telitacicept in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a multicentre, retrospective, real-world study. Lupus Sci Med 2023; 10:e001074. [PMID: 38007228 PMCID: PMC10679987 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2023-001074] [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: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the efficacy and safety of telitacicept in the treatment of patients with SLE in everyday clinical practice. METHODS Seventy-two patients with active SLE who received telitacicept for more than 24 weeks at multiple centres in China between 2019 and 2022 were retrospectively identified. Twenty-one of these patients received 52 continuous weeks of treatment with telitacicept. Treatment outcomes were analysed separately according to whether patients had renal or haematological abnormalities. Trajectory analysis was performed to identify patients with a limited response. Factors contributing to a limited response were explored by multivariable logistic regression analysis. RESULTS After treatment with telitacicept for 4, 12, 24 and 52 weeks, 22.22%, 54.17%, 72.22% and 80.95% of patients, respectively, achieved an SLE Responder Index 4; 8.33%, 26.39%, 34.72% and 47.62% achieved a Lupus Low Disease Activity State; and 0%, 4.17%, 8.33% and 23.81% achieved remission. Significant decreases in serum IgA, IgG and IgM levels were observed at 4 weeks and showed a downward trend at 12, 24 and 52 weeks. The median 24-hour urinary protein declined from 1323.5 mg to 224.0 mg in patients with lupus nephritis after treatment with telitacicept for 52 weeks. Furthermore, a large proportion of patients (10 of 13) with haematological abnormalities recovered after 52 weeks of treatment with telitacicept. No severe adverse events were reported during the observation period. Age appeared to have a negative impact on treatment efficacy. CONCLUSIONS Telitacicept demonstrated favourable efficacy and safety in patients with active SLE and improved the renal and haematological manifestations of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Zhi Jin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yu-Jing Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Zhijun Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Bin Ma
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Fuyang People's Hospital, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Lin Niu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Fuyang People's Hospital, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hai-Feng Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Si-Dong Li
- Institute of Public Health Science, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Bao
- Institute of Public Health Science, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Guosheng Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhu Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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Mathur M, Chan TM, Oh KH, Kooienga L, Zhuo M, Pinto CS, Chacko B. A PRoliferation-Inducing Ligand (APRIL) in the Pathogenesis of Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy: A Review of the Evidence. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6927. [PMID: 37959392 PMCID: PMC10650434 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216927] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A PRoliferation-Inducing Ligand (APRIL), the thirteenth member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, plays a key role in the regulation of activated B cells, the survival of long-lived plasma cells, and immunoglobulin (Ig) isotype class switching. Several lines of evidence have implicated APRIL in the pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). Globally, IgAN is the most common primary glomerulonephritis, and it can progress to end-stage kidney disease; yet, disease-modifying treatments for this condition have historically been lacking. The preliminary data in ongoing clinical trials indicate that APRIL inhibition can reduce proteinuria and slow the rate of kidney disease progression by acting at an upstream level in IgAN pathogenesis. In this review, we examine what is known about the physiologic roles of APRIL and evaluate the experimental and epidemiological evidence describing how these normal biologic processes are thought to be subverted in IgAN. The weight of the preclinical, clinical, and genetic data supporting a key role for APRIL in IgAN has galvanized pharmacologic research, and several anti-APRIL drug candidates have now entered clinical development for IgAN. Herein, we present an overview of the clinical results to date. Finally, we explore where more research and evidence are needed to transform potential therapies into clinical benefits for patients with IgAN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tak Mao Chan
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Kook-Hwan Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea;
| | - Laura Kooienga
- Colorado Kidney and Vascular Care, Denver, CO 80012, USA;
| | - Min Zhuo
- Visterra, Inc., Waltham, MA 02451, USA;
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Cibele S. Pinto
- Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA;
| | - Bobby Chacko
- Nephrology and Transplantation Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, NSW 2305, Australia;
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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Kohan DE, Barratt J, Heerspink HJ, Campbell KN, Camargo M, Ogbaa I, Haile-Meskale R, Rizk DV, King A. Targeting the Endothelin A Receptor in IgA Nephropathy. Kidney Int Rep 2023; 8:2198-2210. [PMID: 38025243 PMCID: PMC10658204 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2023.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide and carries a substantial risk of kidney failure. New agency-approved therapies, either specifically for IgAN or for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in general, hold out hope for mitigating renal deterioration in patients with IgAN. The latest addition to this therapeutic armamentarium targets the endothelin-A receptor (ETAR). Activation of ETAR on multiple renal cell types elicits a host of pathophysiological effects, including vasoconstriction, cell proliferation, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis. Blockade of ETAR is renoprotective in experimental models of IgAN and reduces proteinuria in patients with IgAN. This review discusses the evidence supporting the use of ETAR blockade in IgAN as well as addressing the potential role for this class of agents among the current and emerging therapies for treating this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald E. Kohan
- Division of Nephrology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Hiddo J.L. Heerspink
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Kirk N. Campbell
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Ike Ogbaa
- Chinook Therapeutics, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Dana V. Rizk
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Andrew King
- Chinook Therapeutics, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Ren Y, Chen S, Yang H. Case Report: Telitacicept in treating a patient with NF155+ autoimmune nodopathy: a successful attempt to manage recurrent elevated sero-anti-NF155 antibodies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1279808. [PMID: 37965304 PMCID: PMC10642300 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1279808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This report presents a case of a neurofascin-155 (NF155)+ autoimmune nodopathy (AN) patient who exhibited resistance to conventional treatments but responded positively to telitacicept therapy. Telitacicept, a dual inhibitor of B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) and A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), suppressed the development and survival of plasma cells and mature B cells. The patient's unique clinical features were consistent with NF155+ AN, showing limited response to standard treatments like rituximab and a recurrent significant increase in anti-NF155 antibody titers. Administering telitacicept (160mg, ih) led to an improvement in clinical symptoms, inflammatory neuropathy cause and treatment (INCAT) scale and inflammatory Rasch-built overall disability scale (I-RODS), and stabilized anti-NF155 antibody levels without a rebound. This case demonstrates telitacicept as a potential novel therapy for NF155+ AN, particularly when conventional treatments fail. Further investigation into its safety, efficacy, dosage, and treatment cycle in NF155+ AN is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Huan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Zhang L, Jin H, Wang D, Wang Y. Case report: Successful treatment of refractory membranous nephropathy with telitacicept. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1268929. [PMID: 37915584 PMCID: PMC10616774 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1268929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite various treatment methods, the remission rate of membranous nephropathy remains limited. Refractory membranous nephropathy especially lacks effective treatment plans. Telitacicept achieves comprehensive inhibition of CD20-positive B cells, plasma cells, and T cells, thereby bringing new hope to the treatment of membranous nephropathy and refractory membranous nephropathy. Here, we report a case of a 46-year-old man with membranous nephropathy. Although the combined treatment with glucocorticoid, tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab was not successful, the patient achieved complete remission of urinary protein after glucocorticoid combined with telitacicept. This is the first report on the application of telitacicept in the treatment of membranous nephropathy, especially refractory membranous nephropathy. The application of telitacicept in the treatment of membranous nephropathy deserves further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yiping Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
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Wu L, Du X, Lu X. Role of telitacicept in the treatment of IgA nephropathy. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:369. [PMID: 37737205 PMCID: PMC10515419 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01320-2] [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: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerular disease in the world, and up to 40% of patients with IgAN develop end-stage renal disease (ESRD). At present, an increasing amount of evidence indicates that the pathogenesis of IgAN is related to autoimmunity. In recent years, several studies have shown that B cell activating factors (BAFF), also known as B lymphocyte stimulators (BLyS), and proliferation-inducing ligand APRIL are extremely important for the activation of autoimmune signalling pathways, which have become key targets for the treatment of IgAN. As a dual-target biological agent, telitacicept can inhibit both BLyS and APRIL cytokines, improve the function of renal immune complexes, and reduce haematuria and proteinuria, which play important roles in IgAN pathogenesis and long-term prognosis. This article reviews the role of telitacicept in IgA nephropathy and discusses its potential for use in the treatment of IgAN and other autoimmune diseases where pathogenesis is driven by B cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Wu
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University Nephropathy of Internal Medicine, Changchun, 130022 China
| | - Xinru Du
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University Nephropathy of Internal Medicine, Changchun, 130022 China
| | - Xuehong Lu
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University Nephropathy of Internal Medicine, Changchun, 130022 China
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In the past, the treatment of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), which is the most common glomerulonephritis worldwide, mostly relied on blockade of the renin-angiotensin system as a central component of so-called supportive therapy as well as on high-dose systemic corticosteroid therapy. RECENT FINDINGS The supportive treatment arm has been expanded by the addition of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, hydroxychloroquine, and, most recently, endothelin A receptor blockers. Treatment with high-dose systemic corticosteroids has become more controversial, with some studies observing no benefit and others documenting the protection of kidney function. However, all recent studies on systemic corticosteroids consistently found significant toxicity. An important novel approach to IgAN, therefore, is therapy with a targeted release formulation of budesonide with preferential release in the distal small intestine, given the mounting evidence for a gut-kidney axis in the pathophysiology of IgAN. In addition, emerging new therapeutic options include a variety of complement inhibitors as well as agents targeting B-cell proliferation and differentiation. SUMMARY In recent years, IgAN has become the focus of a considerable number of clinical studies that will significantly advance the development of new therapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uta Kunter
- Division of Nephrology and Rheumatology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
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Petrou D, Kalogeropoulos P, Liapis G, Lionaki S. IgA Nephropathy: Current Treatment and New Insights. Antibodies (Basel) 2023; 12:40. [PMID: 37366657 PMCID: PMC10294861 DOI: 10.3390/antib12020040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common cause of primary glomerulonephritis worldwide. Despite the histopathologic hallmark of mesangial IgA deposition, IgAN is a heterogenous autoimmune disease not only in terms of clinical presentation but also in long-term disease progression. The pathogenesis of the disease is complex and includes the generation of circulating IgA immune complexes with chemical and biological characteristics that favor mesangial deposition and reaction to mesangial under-glycosylated IgA1 accumulation, which leads to tissue injury with glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis. Patients with proteinuria over 1 g, hypertension, and impaired renal function at diagnosis are considered to be at high risk for disease progression and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Glucocorticoids have been the mainstay of treatment for these patients for years, but without long-term benefit for renal function and accompanied by several adverse events. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of IgAN in recent years has led to the development of several new therapeutic agents. In this review, we summarize the current therapeutic approach for patients with IgAN as well as all novel investigational agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Petrou
- Department of Nephrology, Second Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Petros Kalogeropoulos
- Department of Nephrology, Second Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - George Liapis
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Sophia Lionaki
- Department of Nephrology, Second Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
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