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Li J, Liu S, Jia C, Li J, Zhang Z, Chen J, Cao Y, Ma C. Pharmacokinetic study of iptacopan and its two acyl glucuronide metabolites in monkey plasma by liquid chromatography combined with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Biomed Chromatogr 2024:e6002. [PMID: 39228060 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.6002] [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: 07/20/2024] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
In this study, a simple and sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometric method was developed and validated for the determination of iptacopan and two acyl glucuronidation metabolites in monkey plasma. The plasma sample was precipitated with acetonitrile and then separated on an Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.7 μm) using 0.1% formic acid and 5 mM ammonium acetate in water and acetonitrile as the mobile phase. The mass spectrometry (MS) detection was performed in positive multiple reactions monitoring (MRM) mode with precursor-to-production transitions. The developed assay was validated over the range of 1-2000 ng/mL for three analytes with correlation coefficient (r) more than 0.99. The validation parameters including accuracy, precision, carryover effect, matrix effect, recovery, and stability were all within the acceptable limits. The validated method has been applied to investigate the pharmacokinetics of iptacopan and its two acyl glucuronidation metabolites in monkey plasma. After intravenous administration, iptacopan showed low clearance (2.75 mL/min/kg) in monkey plasma. After oral administration, the bioavailability was 55.43%. The exposure (AUC0-t) of direct acyl glucuronide (AG) of iptacopan accounts for 9.73% of the iptacopan plasma exposure. The AUC0-t of AG of dealkylated metabolite of iptacopan was present at a lower level, accounting for 0.5% of the iptacopan plasma exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingchu Li
- Shanghai TCM-integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Shanghai TCM-integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenglin Jia
- Shanghai TCM-integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiacheng Li
- Shanghai TCM-integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhihui Zhang
- Shanghai TCM-integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Shanghai TCM-integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongbin Cao
- Shanghai TCM-integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Ma
- Shanghai TCM-integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Sándor N, Schneider AE, Matola AT, Barbai VH, Bencze D, Hammad HH, Papp A, Kövesdi D, Uzonyi B, Józsi M. The human factor H protein family - an update. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1135490. [PMID: 38410512 PMCID: PMC10894998 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1135490] [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: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Complement is an ancient and complex network of the immune system and, as such, it plays vital physiological roles, but it is also involved in numerous pathological processes. The proper regulation of the complement system is important to allow its sufficient and targeted activity without deleterious side-effects. Factor H is a major complement regulator, and together with its splice variant factor H-like protein 1 and the five human factor H-related (FHR) proteins, they have been linked to various diseases. The role of factor H in inhibiting complement activation is well studied, but the function of the FHRs is less characterized. Current evidence supports the main role of the FHRs as enhancers of complement activation and opsonization, i.e., counter-balancing the inhibitory effect of factor H. FHRs emerge as soluble pattern recognition molecules and positive regulators of the complement system. In addition, factor H and some of the FHR proteins were shown to modulate the activity of immune cells, a non-canonical function outside the complement cascade. Recent efforts have intensified to study factor H and the FHRs and develop new tools for the distinction, quantification and functional characterization of members of this protein family. Here, we provide an update and overview on the versatile roles of factor H family proteins, what we know about their biological functions in healthy conditions and in diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémi Sándor
- Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- HUN-REN-ELTE Complement Research Group, Hungarian Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | | | - Veronika H. Barbai
- Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dániel Bencze
- Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Hani Hashim Hammad
- Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Papp
- Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dorottya Kövesdi
- Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- HUN-REN-ELTE Complement Research Group, Hungarian Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Barbara Uzonyi
- Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- HUN-REN-ELTE Complement Research Group, Hungarian Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mihály Józsi
- Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- HUN-REN-ELTE Complement Research Group, Hungarian Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
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Novel Complement C5 Small-interfering RNA Lipid Nanoparticle Prolongs Graft Survival in a Hypersensitized Rat Kidney Transplant Model. Transplantation 2022; 106:2338-2347. [PMID: 35749284 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prophylaxis of antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) caused by donor-specific antibodies remains challenging. Given the critical roles of complement activity in antibody-mediated graft injury, we developed a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation of small-interfering RNA against complement C5 (C5 siRNA-LNP) and investigated whether C5 siRNA-LNP could downregulate the complement activity and act as an effective treatment for AMR. METHODS Lewis recipient rats were sensitized by skin grafting from Brown Norway donor rats. Kidney transplantation was performed at 4 wk post-skin grafting.C5 siRNA- or control siRNA-LNP was administered intravenously, and the weekly injections were continued until the study's conclusion. Cyclosporin (CsA) and/or deoxyspergualin (DSG) were used as adjunctive immunosuppressants. Complement activity was evaluated using hemolysis assays. The deposition of C5b9 in the grafts was evaluated using immunohistochemical analysis on day 7 posttransplantation. RESULTS C5 siRNA-LNP completely suppressed C5 expression and complement activity (hemolytic activity ≤ 20%) 7 d postadministration. C5 siRNA-LNP in combination with CsA and DSG (median survival time: 56.0 d) prolonged graft survival compared with control siRNA-LNP in combination with CsA and DSG (median survival time: 21.0 d; P = 0.0012; log-rank test). Immunohistochemical analysis of the grafts revealed that downregulation of C5 expression was associated with a reduction in C5b9-positive area ( P = 0.0141, Steel-Dwass test). CONCLUSIONS C5 siRNA-LNP combined with immunosuppressants CsA and DSG downregulated C5 activity and significantly prolonged graft survival compared with control siRNA-LNP with CsA and DSG. Downregulation of C5 expression using C5 siRNA-LNP may be an effective therapeutic approach for AMR.
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Gavriilaki E, Papakonstantinou A, Agrios KA. Novel Insights into Factor D Inhibition. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:7216. [PMID: 35806224 PMCID: PMC9267021 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Complement-mediated diseases or complementopathies, such as Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), cold agglutinin disease (CAD), and transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA), demand advanced complement diagnostics and therapeutics be adopted in a vast field of medical specialties, such as hematology, transplantation, rheumatology, and nephrology. The miracle of complement inhibitors as "orphan drugs" has dramatically improved morbidity and mortality in patients with otherwise life-threatening complementopathies. Efficacy has been significantly improved by upstream inhibition in patients with PNH. Different molecules may exert diverse characteristics in vitro and in vivo. Further studies remain to show safety and efficacy of upstream inhibition in other complementopathies. In addition, cost and availability issues are major drawbacks of current treatments. Therefore, further developments are warranted to address the unmet clinical needs in the field of complementopathies. This state-of-the-art narrative review aims to delineate novel insights into factor D inhibition as a promising target for complementopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Gavriilaki
- Hematology Department, G Papanicolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Papakonstantinou
- Department of Urology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos A. Agrios
- Department of Chemistry, Villanova University, 800 Lancaster Ave., Villanova, PA 19085, USA
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Exploiting protease activation for therapy. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:1743-1754. [PMID: 35314338 PMCID: PMC9132161 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Proteases have crucial roles in homeostasis and disease; and protease inhibitors and recombinant proteases in enzyme replacement therapy have become key therapeutic applications of protease biology across several indications. This review briefly summarises therapeutic approaches based on protease activation and focuses on how recent insights into the spatial and temporal control of the proteolytic activation of growth factors and interleukins are leading to unique strategies for the discovery of new medicines. In particular, two emerging areas are covered: the first is based on antibody therapies that target the process of proteolytic activation of the pro-form of proteins rather than their mature form; the second covers a potentially new class of biopharmaceuticals using engineered, proteolytically activable and initially inactive pro-forms of antibodies or effector proteins to increase specificity and improve the therapeutic window.
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Kulasekararaj AG, Brodsky RA, Nishimura JI, Patriquin CJ, Schrezenmeier H. The importance of terminal complement inhibition in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Ther Adv Hematol 2022; 13:20406207221091046. [PMID: 35663504 PMCID: PMC9160915 DOI: 10.1177/20406207221091046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare, chronic hematologic disorder associated with inappropriate terminal complement activity on blood cells that can result in intravascular hemolysis (IVH), thromboembolic events (TEs), and organ damage. Untreated individuals with PNH have an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Patients with PNH experiencing IVH often present with an elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; ⩾ 1.5 × the upper limit of normal) level which is associated with a significantly higher risk of TEs, one of the leading causes of death in PNH. LDH is therefore used as a biomarker for IVH in PNH. The main objective of PNH treatment should therefore be prevention of morbidity and mortality due to terminal complement activation, with the aim of improving patient outcomes. Approval of the first terminal complement inhibitor, eculizumab, greatly changed the treatment landscape of PNH by giving patients an effective therapy and demonstrated the critical role of terminal complement and the possibility of modulating it therapeutically. The current mainstays of treatment for PNH are the terminal complement component 5 (C5) inhibitors, eculizumab and ravulizumab, which have shown efficacy in controlling terminal complement-mediated IVH, reducing TEs and organ damage, and improving health-related quality of life in patients with PNH since their approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2007 and 2018, respectively. Moreover, the use of eculizumab has been shown to reduce mortality due to PNH. More recently, interest has arisen in developing additional complement inhibitors with different modes of administration and therapeutics targeting other components of the complement cascade. This review focuses on the pathophysiology of clinical complications in PNH and explores why sustained inhibition of terminal complement activity through the use of complement inhibitors is essential for the management of patients with this chronic and debilitating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin G. Kulasekararaj
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK
- National Institute of Health Research/Wellcome King’s Clinical Research Facility and King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | - Jun-ichi Nishimura
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Christopher J. Patriquin
- Division of Medical Oncology & Hematology, University Health Network – Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hubert Schrezenmeier
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University of Ulm, and Institute of Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Iptacopan monotherapy in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria: a 2-cohort open-label proof-of-concept study. Blood Adv 2022; 6:4450-4460. [PMID: 35561315 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022006960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Iptacopan (LNP023) is a novel, oral selective inhibitor of complement factor B under clinical development for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). In this ongoing open-label phase 2 study, PNH patients with active hemolysis were randomized to receive single-agent iptacopan twice-daily, at a dose of either 25 mg for 4 weeks followed by 100 mg for up to 2 years (cohort 1) or 50 mg for 4 weeks followed by 200 mg for up to 2 years (cohort 2). At the time of interim analysis, of 13 PNH patients enrolled, all 12 evaluable for efficacy achieved the primary endpoint of reduction in serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels by at least 60% by week 12 as compared to baseline; mean LDH levels dropped rapidly and durably, namely by 77% and 85% at week 2 and by 86% and 86% at week 12 in cohorts 1 and 2, respectively. Most patients achieved a clinically meaningful improvement in hemoglobin levels and all but one patient remained transfusion-free up to week 12. Other markers of hemolysis, including bilirubin, reticulocytes and haptoglobin, showed consistent improvements. No thromboembolic events were reported, and iptacopan was well tolerated, with no severe or serious adverse events reported up until the data cutoff. In addition to the previously reported beneficial effect of iptacopan add-on therapy to eculizumab, this study showed that iptacopan monotherapy in treatment-naïve PNH patients resulted in normalization of hemolytic markers and rapid transfusion-free improvement of hemoglobin levels in most patients. Registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03896152.
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8
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Discovery of APL-1030, a Novel, High-Affinity Nanofitin Inhibitor of C3-Mediated Complement Activation. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030432. [PMID: 35327625 PMCID: PMC8946527 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled complement activation contributes to multiple immune pathologies. Although synthetic compstatin derivatives targeting C3 and C3b are robust inhibitors of complement activation, their physicochemical and molecular properties may limit access to specific organs, development of bifunctional moieties, and therapeutic applications requiring transgenic expression. Complement-targeting therapeutics containing only natural amino acids could enable multifunctional pharmacology, gene therapies, and targeted delivery for underserved diseases. A Nanofitin library of hyperthermophilic protein scaffolds was screened using ribosome display for C3/C3b-targeting clones mimicking compstatin pharmacology. APL-1030, a recombinant 64-residue Nanofitin, emerged as the lead candidate. APL-1030 is thermostable, binds C3 (KD, 1.59 nM) and C3b (KD, 1.11 nM), and inhibits complement activation via classical (IC50 = 110.8 nM) and alternative (IC50 = 291.3 nM) pathways in Wieslab assays. Pharmacologic activity (determined by alternative pathway inhibition) was limited to primate species of tested sera. C3b-binding sites of APL-1030 and compstatin were shown to overlap by X-ray crystallography of C3b-bound APL-1030. APL-1030 is a novel, high-affinity inhibitor of primate C3-mediated complement activation developed from natural amino acids on the hyperthermophilic Nanofitin platform. Its properties may support novel drug candidates, enabling bifunctional moieties, gene therapy, and tissue-targeted C3 pharmacologics for diseases with high unmet need.
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Song Z, Zhang J, Meng J, Jiang G, Yan Z, Yang Y, Chen Z, You W, Wang Z, Chen G. Different Monoclonal Antibodies in Myasthenia Gravis: A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:790834. [PMID: 35115936 PMCID: PMC8804097 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.790834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a common autoimmune disease with acquired neuromuscular transmission disorders. Recently, monoclonal antibodies have been shown to successfully treat a variety of diseases. Methods: In this meta-analysis, an appropriate search strategy was used to search eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on different monoclonal antibodies to treat patients with MG published up to September 2021 from the embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Library. We assessed the average difference or odds ratio between each drug and placebo and summarized them as the average and 95% confidence interval (CI), respectively. Results: In indicators of efficacy, patients receiving eculizumab (MD, −1.9; 95% CI, −3.2–0.76) had decreases in MG-ADL scores compared to placebo. In addition, only eculizumab (MD, −3.1; 95% CI, −4.7–1.5) and efgartigimod (MD, −1.4; 95% CI, −2.1–0.68) showed a significant difference from placebo in the amount of reduction in QMG scores, while neither of the other two monoclonal antibodies was statistically significant. With regard to the safety of monoclonal antibody therapy, there was no significant difference in the probability of AE in subjects treated with any of the four monoclonal antibodies compared to placebo. Conclusions: eculizumab was effective in reducing MG-ADL scores and QMG scores in myasthenia gravis. Meanwhile, eculizumab also caused fewer AE. As an emerging therapy, monoclonal antibodies are prospective in the treatment of MG. However, more researches are required to be invested in the future as the results obtained from small sample sizes are not reliable enough.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoming Song
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiahao Meng
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Guannan Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zeya Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanbo Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhouqing Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wanchun You
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wanchun You, ; Zhong Wang,
| | - Zhong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wanchun You, ; Zhong Wang,
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Risitano AM, Peffault de Latour R, Marano L, Frieri C. Discovering C3 targeting therapies for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria: Achievements and pitfalls. Semin Immunol 2022; 59:101618. [PMID: 35764467 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) was revolutionized by the introduction of the anti-C5 agent eculizumab, which resulted in sustained control of intravascular hemolysis, leading to transfusion avoidance and hemoglobin stabilization in at least half of all patients. Nevertheless, extravascular hemolysis mediated by C3 has emerged as inescapable phenomenon in PNH patients on anti-C5 treatment, frequently limiting its hematological benefit. More than 10 years ago we postulated that therapeutic interception of the complement cascade at the level of C3 should improve the clinical response in PNH. Compstatin is a 13-residue disulfide-bridged peptide binding to both human C3 and C3b, eventually disabling the formation of C3 convertases and thereby preventing complement activation via all three of its activating pathways. Several generations of compstatin analogs have been tested in vitro, and their clinical evaluation has begun in PNH and other complement-mediated diseases. Pegcetacoplan, a pegylated form of the compstatin analog POT-4, has been investigated in two phase I/II and one phase III study in PNH patients. In the phase III study, PNH patients with residual anemia already on eculizumab were randomized to receive either pegcetacoplan or eculizumab in a head-to-head comparison. At week 16, pegcetacoplan was superior to eculizumab in terms of hemoglobin change from baseline (the primary endpoint), as well as in other secondary endpoints tracking intravascular and extravascular hemolysis. Pegcetacoplan showed a good safety profile, even though breakthrough hemolysis emerged as a possible risk requiring additional attention. Here we review all the available data regarding this innovative treatment that has recently been approved for the treatment of PNH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio M Risitano
- AORN San Giuseppe Moscati Avellino, Italy; Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy; Severe Aplastic Anemia Working Party of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Regis Peffault de Latour
- Severe Aplastic Anemia Working Party of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Leiden, Netherlands; French Reference Center for Aplastic Anemia and Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria, Saint-Louis Hospital and Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Camilla Frieri
- AORN San Giuseppe Moscati Avellino, Italy; Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy; French Reference Center for Aplastic Anemia and Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria, Saint-Louis Hospital and Université de Paris, Paris, France
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11
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Giudice V, Risitano AM, Selleri C. Infectious Agents and Bone Marrow Failure: A Causal or a Casual Connection? Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:757730. [PMID: 34805223 PMCID: PMC8599277 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.757730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acquired bone marrow failure (BMF) syndromes are considered immune-mediated disorders because hematological recovery after immunosuppressive therapies is the strongest indirect evidence of the involvement of immune cells in marrow failure development. Among pathophysiology hypotheses, immune derangement after chronic antigen exposure or cross-reactivity between viral particles and cellular components are the most accepted; however, epitopes against whom these lymphocytes are directed to remain unknown. In this study, we showed that BMF-associated immunodominant clones, namely the most represented T cells carrying an antigen-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) sequence in a random pool, were frequently associated with those described in various infectious diseases, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. We hypothesize that these pathogens might elicit an autoimmune response triggered by cross-reactivity between pathogen-related components and proteins or might be expanded as an unspecific response to a global immune dysregulation during BMF. However, those frequent intracellular pathogens might not only be passengers in marrow failure development, while playing a central role in starting the autoimmune response against hematopoietic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Giudice
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Hematology and Transplant Center, University Hospital San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona, Salerno, Italy
| | - Antonio M Risitano
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Unit, AORN San Giuseppe Moscati, Avellino, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine Selleri
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Hematology and Transplant Center, University Hospital San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona, Salerno, Italy
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12
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Daly RP, Jalbert JJ, Keith S, Symonds T, Shammo J. A novel patient-reported outcome instrument assessing the symptoms of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, the PNH-SQ. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2021; 5:102. [PMID: 34581910 PMCID: PMC8479131 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-021-00376-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient-reported outcome measures (PROs) used to measure symptoms of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) in trials do not measure PNH symptoms comprehensively and do not assess daily fluctuations in symptoms. Following a literature review and consultation with a PNH expert, we drafted the PNH Symptom Questionnaire (PNH-SQ) and a patient-centric conceptual model of PNH symptoms and impacts. We then interviewed 15 patients with PNH to assess comprehensiveness of symptom capture from the patient perspective and to cognitively debrief the PNH-SQ. Patient interview data were also used to finalize the PNH conceptual model. RESULTS Participants mentioned 27 signs or symptoms of PNH spontaneously or after being probed; 93% reported experiencing ≥ 1 PNH symptom. Concept saturation was reached for all PNH symptoms. Further, interviews confirmed the instrument captured the most common PNH symptoms, including fatigue (87%), abdominal pain (60%), and difficulty swallowing (47%), with fatigue ranked as the most bothersome symptom. The interviews demonstrated that participants understood the items of the PNH-SQ (90-100%); considered the symptoms relevant (> 50- > 90%); the recall period appropriate (> 80-100%); and the response options suitable (> 80-100%). Participants also suggested changes regarding item redundancy and relevance; this feedback was used to finalize the instrument. CONCLUSIONS The finalized PNH-SQ assesses the presence and severity of 10 symptoms-abdominal pain, chest discomfort, difficulty sleeping, difficulty swallowing, difficulty thinking clearly, fatigue, headache, muscle weakness, pain in the legs or back, and shortness of breath-over 24 h. The PNH-SQ is a content-valid questionnaire suitable for assessing daily symptom presence and severity in PNH clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica J Jalbert
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Rd, Tarrytown, NY, 10591, USA.
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13
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Immunologic effects on the haematopoietic stem cell in marrow failure. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2021; 34:101276. [PMID: 34404528 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2021.101276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Acquired bone marrow failure (BMF) syndromes comprise a diverse group of diseases with variable clinical manifestations but overlapping features of immune activation, resulting in haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) damage and destruction. This review focuses on clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and treatment of four BMF: acquired aplastic anaemia, large granular lymphocytic leukaemia, paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria, and hypoplastic myelodysplastic syndrome. Autoantigens are speculated to be the inciting event that result in immune activation in all of these diseases, but specific pathogenic antigens have not been identified. Oligoclonal cytotoxic T cell expansion and an active role of proinflammatory cytokines, primarily interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), are two main contributors to HSPC growth inhibition and apoptosis in BMF. Emerging evidence also suggests involvement of the innate immune system.
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14
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Park YG, Park YS, Kim IB. Complement System and Potential Therapeutics in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136851. [PMID: 34202223 PMCID: PMC8269056 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex multifactorial disease characterized in its late form by neovascularization (wet type) or geographic atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium cell layer (dry type). The complement system is an intrinsic component of innate immunity. There has been growing evidence that the complement system plays an integral role in maintaining immune surveillance and homeostasis in AMD. Based on the association between the genotypes of complement variants and AMD occurrence and the presence of complement in drusen from AMD patients, the complement system has become a therapeutic target for AMD. However, the mechanism of complement disease propagation in AMD has not been fully understood. This concise review focuses on an overall understanding of the role of the complement system in AMD and its ongoing clinical trials. It provides further insights into a strategy for the treatment of AMD targeting the complement system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Gun Park
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea;
| | - Yong Soo Park
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea;
| | - In-Beom Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea;
- Catholic Neuroscience Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
- Catholic Institute for Applied Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2258-7263
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15
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Complement-mediated oxidative damage of red cells impairs response to eculizumab in a G6PD-deficient patient with PNH. Blood 2021; 136:3082-3085. [PMID: 32845970 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020007780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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16
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Gavriilaki M, Kimiskidis VK, Gavriilaki E. Precision Medicine in Neurology: The Inspirational Paradigm of Complement Therapeutics. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:E341. [PMID: 33114553 PMCID: PMC7693884 DOI: 10.3390/ph13110341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Precision medicine has emerged as a central element of healthcare science. Complement, a component of innate immunity known for centuries, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of numerous incurable neurological diseases, emerging as a potential therapeutic target and predictive biomarker. In parallel, the innovative application of the first complement inhibitor in clinical practice as an approved treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) related with specific antibodies raised hope for the implementation of personalized therapies in detrimental neurological diseases. A thorough literature search was conducted through May 2020 at MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov databases based on medical terms (MeSH)" complement system proteins" and "neurologic disease". Complement's role in pathophysiology, monitoring of disease activity and therapy has been investigated in MG, multiple sclerosis, NMOSD, spinal muscular atrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson, Alzheimer, Huntington disease, Guillain-Barré syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, stroke, and epilepsy. Given the complexity of complement diagnostics and therapeutics, this state-of-the-art review aims to provide a brief description of the complement system for the neurologist, an overview of novel complement inhibitors and updates of complement studies in a wide range of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gavriilaki
- Postgraduate Course, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Vasilios K. Kimiskidis
- Postgraduate Course, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, AHEPA Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Gavriilaki
- Hematology Department-BMT Unit, G. Papanicolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece;
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Jiang X, Pan R. Pharmacokinetics and metabolism of LNP023 in rats by liquid chromatography combined with electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry. Biomed Chromatogr 2020; 35:e5006. [PMID: 33067853 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.5006] [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: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a simple and sensitive LC-tandem mass spectrometric method was developed and validated for the determination of LNP023 in rat plasma. The plasma sample was precipitated with acetonitrile and then separated on an ACQUITY HSS T3 column (50 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.8 μm) using 0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile as the mobile phase. The MS detection was performed in positive multiple-reaction monitoring mode with precursor-to-product ion transitions of m/z 423.3 → 174.1 and m/z 435.3 → 367.1 for LNP023 and olaparib (internal standard), respectively. The developed assay was validated in the linear range of 0.1-1000 ng/mL with correlation coefficient (r) greater than 0.9992. The validation parameters were all within the acceptable limits. The validated method has been successfully used to investigate the pharmacokinetics of LNP023 in rat plasma, and our results indicated that LNP023 showed low clearance and high bioavailability (62.2%). Furthermore, four minor metabolites from rat plasma were detected and identified by LC combined with high-resolution mass spectrometry. The metabolic pathways were O-deethylation (M1), hydroxylation (M4), oxidation (M3), and acyl-glucuronidation (M2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianglan Jiang
- College of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, 221004, China
| | - Rongrong Pan
- College of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, 221004, China
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18
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Gavriilaki E, Sakellari I, Gavriilaki M, Anagnostopoulos A. A New Era in Endothelial Injury Syndromes: Toxicity of CAR-T Cells and the Role of Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3886. [PMID: 32485958 PMCID: PMC7312228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy with chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T cells) has been recently approved for patients with relapsed/refractory B-lymphoproliferative neoplasms. Along with great efficacy in patients with poor prognosis, CAR-T cells have been also linked with novel toxicities in a significant portion of patients. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity present with unique clinical phenotypes that have not been previously observed. Nevertheless, they share similar characteristics with endothelial injury syndromes developing post hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Evolution in complement therapeutics has attracted renewed interest in these life-threatening syndromes, primarily concerning transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA). The immune system emerges as a key player not only mediating cytokine responses but potentially contributing to endothelial injury in CAR-T cell toxicity. The interplay between complement, endothelial dysfunction, hypercoagulability, and inflammation seems to be a common denominator in these syndromes. As the indications for CAR-T cells and patient populations expand, there in an unmet clinical need of better understanding of the pathophysiology of CAR-T cell toxicity. Therefore, this review aims to provide state-of-the-art knowledge on cellular therapies in clinical practice (indications and toxicities), endothelial injury syndromes and immunity, as well as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Gavriilaki
- Hematology Department—BMT Unit, G Papanicolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece; (I.S.); (A.A.)
| | - Ioanna Sakellari
- Hematology Department—BMT Unit, G Papanicolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece; (I.S.); (A.A.)
| | - Maria Gavriilaki
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, AHEPA Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Achilles Anagnostopoulos
- Hematology Department—BMT Unit, G Papanicolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece; (I.S.); (A.A.)
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19
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Abstract
The renaissance of complement diagnostics and therapeutics has introduced precision medicine into a widened field of complement-mediated diseases. In particular, complement-mediated diseases (or complementopathies) with ongoing or published clinical trials of complement inhibitors include paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, cold agglutinin disease, hemolytic uremic syndrome, nephropathies, HELLP syndrome, transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and neuromyelitis optica. Recognizing that this field is rapidly expanding, we aim to provide a state-of-the-art review of (a) current understanding of complement biology for the clinician, (b) novel insights into complement with potential applicability to clinical practice, (c) complement in disease across various disciplines (hematology, nephrology, obstetrics, transplantation, rheumatology, and neurology), and (d) the potential future of precision medicine. Better understanding of complement diagnostics and therapeutics will not only facilitate physicians treating patients in clinical practice but also provide the basis for future research toward precision medicine in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Gavriilaki
- Hematology Department, G. Papanicolaou Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Robert A. Brodsky
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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20
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Gembillo G, Siligato R, Cernaro V, Santoro D. Complement Inhibition Therapy and Dialytic Strategies in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria: The Nephrologist's Opinion. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1261. [PMID: 32357555 PMCID: PMC7287718 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare clonal disease that presents an estimated incidence of 1.3 cases per million per year, with a prevalence of 15.9 cases per million. It is characterized by hemolysis, bone marrow dysfunction with peripheral blood cytopenia, hypercoagulability, thrombosis, renal impairment and arterial and pulmonary hypertension. Hemolysis and subsequent hemosiderin accumulation in tubular epithelium cells induce tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis. The origin of PNH is the somatic mutation in the X-linked phosphatidylinositol glycan class A (PIG-A) gene located on Xp22: this condition leads to the production of clonal blood cells with a deficiency in those surface proteins that protect against the lytic action of the activated complement system. Despite the increased knowledge of this syndrome, therapies for PNH were still only experimental and symptomatic, until the introduction of the C5 complement blockade agent Eculizumab. A second generation of anti-complement agents is currently under investigation, representing future promising therapeutic strategies for patients affected by PNH. In the case of chronic hemolysis and renal iron deposition, a multidisciplinary approach should be considered to avoid or treat acute tubular injury or acute kidney injury (AKI). New promising perspectives derive from complement inhibitors and iron chelators, as well as more invasive treatments such as immunoadsorption or the use of dedicated hemodialysis filters in the presence of AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Gembillo
- Unit of Nephrology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (V.C.); (D.S.)
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21
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Ghias MH, Hyde MJ, Tomalin LE, Morgan BP, Alavi A, Lowes MA, Piguet V. Role of the Complement Pathway in Inflammatory Skin Diseases: A Focus on Hidradenitis Suppurativa. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 140:531-536.e1. [PMID: 31870626 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although the role of immune dysregulation in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) has yet to be elucidated, recent studies identified several complement abnormalities in patients with HS. The complement system serves a critical role in the modulation of immune response and regulation of cutaneous commensal bacteria. Complement is implicated in several inflammatory skin diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus, angioedema, pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, and HS. A model of HS pathogenesis is proposed, integrating the role of commensal bacteria, cutaneous immune responses, and complement dysregulation. The role of complement in disease pathogenesis has led to the development of novel anticomplement agents and clinical trials investigating the efficacy of such treatments in HS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lewis E Tomalin
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai Department of Population Health, New York, New York
| | - B Paul Morgan
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Afsaneh Alavi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Vincent Piguet
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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22
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Patriquin CJ, Kuo KHM. Eculizumab and Beyond: The Past, Present, and Future of Complement Therapeutics. Transfus Med Rev 2019; 33:256-265. [PMID: 31703946 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmrv.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the complement system underlies the pathophysiology of many diseases. Renewed interest in complement occurred with the recognition that its therapeutic inhibition was possible. Terminal complement blockade with the anti-C5 monoclonal antibody eculizumab significantly changed management and clinical outcomes of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and served as a proof of concept for other complement-mediated diseases. Eculizumab is also approved for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome and myasthenia gravis. Multiple new disease indications have been identified, and novel complement inhibitors are in various stages of development, with several currently in human trials. Beyond C5, these new drugs block proximal complement, pathway-specific targets, convertase activity, and anaphylatoxin function. Though monoclonal antibodies are still common, peptides, RNAi, and small molecule inhibitors provide the opportunity for different administration routes and schedules. Several challenges still exist or will soon present themselves, including mitigation of infection risk, effective monitoring strategies, and how to choose between therapeutics when more than one is available. In this review, we will describe the lessons learned from the "eculizumab era," present many of the novel therapeutics currently or soon to be in trials, and highlight some of the challenges that will require attention as the field progresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Patriquin
- Division of Hematology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Divison of Medical Oncology & Hematology, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Kevin H M Kuo
- Division of Hematology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Divison of Medical Oncology & Hematology, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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23
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Berentsen S, Hill A, Hill QA, Tvedt THA, Michel M. Novel insights into the treatment of complement-mediated hemolytic anemias. Ther Adv Hematol 2019; 10:2040620719873321. [PMID: 31523413 PMCID: PMC6734604 DOI: 10.1177/2040620719873321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Complement-mediated hemolytic anemias can either be caused by deficiencies in regulatory complement components or by autoimmune pathogenesis that triggers inappropriate complement activation. In paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) hemolysis is entirely complement-driven. Hemolysis is also thought to be complement-dependent in cold agglutinin disease (CAD) and in paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH), whereas warm antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) is a partially complement-mediated disorder, depending on the subtype of wAIHA and the extent of complement activation. The pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and current therapies for these diseases are reviewed in this article. Novel, complement-directed therapies are being rapidly developed. Therapeutic terminal complement inhibition using eculizumab has revolutionized the therapy and prognosis in PNH but has proved less efficacious in CAD. Upstream complement modulation is currently being investigated and appears to be a highly promising therapy, and two such agents have entered phase II and III trials. Of these, the anti-C1s monoclonal antibody sutimlimab has shown favorable activity in CAD, while the anti-C3 cyclic peptide pegcetacoplan appears to be promising in PNH as well as CAD, and may also have a therapeutic potential in wAIHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, P.O. Box 2170, Haugesund, 5504, Norway
| | - Anita Hill
- Department of Haematology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, Leeds, UK
| | - Quentin A Hill
- Department of Haematology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Marc Michel
- Department of Medicine, Henri Mondor Hospital, Université Paris-Est, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris Creteil, Creteil, France
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24
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Clinical promise of next-generation complement therapeutics. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2019; 18:707-729. [PMID: 31324874 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-019-0031-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 209] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The complement system plays a key role in pathogen immunosurveillance and tissue homeostasis. However, subversion of its tight regulatory control can fuel a vicious cycle of inflammatory damage that exacerbates pathology. The clinical merit of targeting the complement system has been established for rare clinical disorders such as paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria and atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome. Evidence from preclinical studies and human genome-wide analyses, supported by new molecular and structural insights, has revealed new pathomechanisms and unmet clinical needs that have thrust a new generation of complement inhibitors into clinical development for a variety of indications. This review critically discusses recent clinical milestones in complement drug discovery, providing an updated translational perspective that may guide optimal target selection and disease-tailored complement intervention.
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25
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Risitano AM, Marotta S, Ricci P, Marano L, Frieri C, Cacace F, Sica M, Kulasekararaj A, Calado RT, Scheinberg P, Notaro R, Peffault de Latour R. Anti-complement Treatment for Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria: Time for Proximal Complement Inhibition? A Position Paper From the SAAWP of the EBMT. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1157. [PMID: 31258525 PMCID: PMC6587878 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria has been revolutionized by the introduction of the anti-C5 agent eculizumab; however, eculizumab is not the cure for Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), and room for improvement remains. Indeed, the hematological benefit during eculizumab treatment for PNH is very heterogeneous among patients, and different response categories can be identified. Complete normalization of hemoglobin (complete and major hematological response), is seen in no more than one third of patients, while the remaining continue to experience some degree of anemia (good and partial hematological responses), in some cases requiring regular red blood cell transfusions (minor hematological response). Different factors contribute to residual anemia during eculizumab treatment: underlying bone marrow dysfunction, residual intravascular hemolysis and the emergence of C3-mediated extravascular hemolysis. These two latter pathogenic mechanisms are the target of novel strategies of anti-complement treatments, which can be split into terminal and proximal complement inhibitors. Many novel terminal complement inhibitors are now in clinical development: they all target C5 (as eculizumab), potentially paralleling the efficacy and safety profile of eculizumab. Possible advantages over eculizumab are long-lasting activity and subcutaneous self-administration. However, novel anti-C5 agents do not improve hematological response to eculizumab, even if some seem associated with a lower risk of breakthrough hemolysis caused by pharmacokinetic reasons (it remains unclear whether more effective inhibition of C5 is possible and clinically beneficial). Indeed, proximal inhibitors are designed to interfere with early phases of complement activation, eventually preventing C3-mediated extravascular hemolysis in addition to intravascular hemolysis. At the moment there are three strategies of proximal complement inhibition: anti-C3 agents, anti-factor D agents and anti-factor B agents. These agents are available either subcutaneously or orally, and have been investigated in monotherapy or in association with eculizumab in PNH patients. Preliminary data clearly demonstrate that proximal complement inhibition is pharmacologically feasible and apparently safe, and may drastically improve the hematological response to complement inhibition in PNH. Indeed, we envision a new scenario of therapeutic complement inhibition, where proximal inhibitors (either anti-C3, anti-FD or anti-FB) may prove effective for the treatment of PNH, either in monotherapy or in combination with anti-C5 agents, eventually leading to drastic improvement of hematological response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio M. Risitano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- Severe Aplastic Anemia Working Party of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Serena Marotta
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- Severe Aplastic Anemia Working Party of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Patrizia Ricci
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Luana Marano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Camilla Frieri
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Cacace
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Sica
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics and Gene Transfer, Core Research Laboratory - Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Austin Kulasekararaj
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics and Gene Transfer, Core Research Laboratory - Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital, National Institute of Health Research/Wellcome King's Clinical Research Facility, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rodrigo T. Calado
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Phillip Scheinberg
- Division of Hematology, Hospital A Beneficência Portuguesa, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosario Notaro
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics and Gene Transfer, Core Research Laboratory - Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Regis Peffault de Latour
- Severe Aplastic Anemia Working Party of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Leiden, Netherlands
- French Reference Center for Aplastic Anemia and Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria, Saint Louis Hospital and University Paris Diderot, Paris, France
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26
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Park DH, Connor KM, Lambris JD. The Challenges and Promise of Complement Therapeutics for Ocular Diseases. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1007. [PMID: 31156618 PMCID: PMC6529562 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocular inflammation is a defining feature of sight threating diseases and its dysregulation can catalyze and or propagate ocular neurodegenerative maladies such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The complement system, an intrinsic component of the innate immunity, has an integral role in maintaining immune-surveillance and homeostasis in the ocular microenvironment; however, overstimulation can drive ocular inflammatory diseases. The mechanism for complement disease propagation in AMD is not fully understood, although there is accumulating evidence showing that targeted modulation of complement-specific proteins has the potential to become a viable therapeutic approach. To date, a major focus of complement therapeutics has been on targeting the alternative complement system in AMD. Recent studies have outlined potential complement cascade inhibitors that might mitigate AMD disease progression. First-in-class complement inhibitors target the modulation of complement proteins C3, C5, factor B, factor D, and properdin. Herein, we will summarize ocular inflammation in the context of AMD disease progression, current clinical outcomes and complications of complement-mediated therapeutics. Given the need for additional therapeutic approaches for ocular inflammatory diseases, targeted complement modulation has emerged as a leading candidate for eliminating inflammation-driven ocular maladies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ho Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Kip M. Connor
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - John D. Lambris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Stellar Chance Laboratories, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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27
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Gavriilaki E, Anagnostopoulos A, Mastellos DC. Complement in Thrombotic Microangiopathies: Unraveling Ariadne's Thread Into the Labyrinth of Complement Therapeutics. Front Immunol 2019; 10:337. [PMID: 30891033 PMCID: PMC6413705 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs) are a heterogeneous group of syndromes presenting with a distinct clinical triad: microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and organ damage. We currently recognize two major entities with distinct pathophysiology: thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Beyond them, differential diagnosis also includes TMAs associated with underlying conditions, such as drugs, malignancy, infections, scleroderma-associated renal crisis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), malignant hypertension, transplantation, HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Since clinical presentation alone is not sufficient to differentiate between these entities, robust pathophysiological features need to be used for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Over the last decades, our understanding of the complement system has evolved rapidly leading to the characterization of diseases which are fueled by complement dysregulation. Among TMAs, complement-mediated HUS (CM-HUS) has long served as a disease model, in which mutations of complement-related genes represent the first hit of the disease and complement inhibition is an effective and safe strategy. Based on this knowledge, clinical conditions resembling CM-HUS in terms of phenotype and genotype have been recognized. As a result, the role of complement in TMAs is rapidly expanding in recent years based on genetic and functional studies. Herein we provide an updated overview of key pathophysiological processes underpinning complement activation and dysregulation in TMAs. We also discuss emerging clinical challenges in streamlining diagnostic algorithms and stratifying TMA patients that could benefit more from complement modulation. With the advent of next-generation complement therapeutics and suitable disease models, these translational perspectives could guide a more comprehensive, disease- and target-tailored complement intervention in these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Gavriilaki
- BMT Unit, Hematology Department, G. Papanicolaou Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Dimitrios C Mastellos
- Division of Biodiagnostic Sciences and Technologies, INRASTES, National Center for Scientific Research Demokritos, Athens, Greece
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Reis ES, Berger N, Wang X, Koutsogiannaki S, Doot RK, Gumas JT, Foukas PG, Resuello RRG, Tuplano JV, Kukis D, Tarantal AF, Young AJ, Kajikawa T, Soulika AM, Mastellos DC, Yancopoulou D, Biglarnia AR, Huber-Lang M, Hajishengallis G, Nilsson B, Lambris JD. Safety profile after prolonged C3 inhibition. Clin Immunol 2018; 197:96-106. [PMID: 30217791 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The central component of the complement cascade, C3, is involved in various biological functions, including opsonization of foreign bodies, clearance of waste material, activation of immune cells, and triggering of pathways controlling development. Given its broad role in immune responses, particularly in phagocytosis and the clearance of microbes, a deficiency in complement C3 in humans is often associated with multiple bacterial infections. Interestingly, an increased susceptibility to infections appears to occur mainly in the first two years of life and then wanes throughout adulthood. In view of the well-established connection between C3 deficiency and infections, therapeutic inhibition of complement at the level of C3 is often considered with caution or disregarded. We therefore set out to investigate the immune and biochemical profile of non-human primates under prolonged treatment with the C3 inhibitor compstatin (Cp40 analog). Cynomolgus monkeys were dosed subcutaneously with Cp40, resulting in systemic inhibition of C3, for 1 week, 2 weeks, or 3 months. Plasma concentrations of both C3 and Cp40 were measured periodically and complete saturation of plasma C3 was confirmed. No differences in hematological, biochemical, or immunological parameters were identified in the blood or tissues of animals treated with Cp40 when compared to those injected with vehicle alone. Further, skin wounds showed no signs of infection in those treated with Cp40. In fact, Cp40 treatment was associated with a trend toward accelerated wound healing when compared with the control group. In addition, a biodistribution study in a rhesus monkey indicated that the distribution of Cp40 in the body is associated with the presence of C3, concentrating in organs that accumulate blood and produce C3. Overall, our data suggest that systemic C3 inhibition in healthy adult non-human primates is not associated with a weakened immune system or susceptibility to infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edimara S Reis
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Nadja Berger
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sophia Koutsogiannaki
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Robert K Doot
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Justin T Gumas
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Periklis G Foukas
- 2nd Department of Pathology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Attikon University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Ranillo R G Resuello
- Simian Conservation Breeding and Research Center (SICONBREC), Makati City, Philippines
| | - Joel V Tuplano
- Simian Conservation Breeding and Research Center (SICONBREC), Makati City, Philippines
| | - David Kukis
- Center for Molecular and Genomic Imaging, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Alice F Tarantal
- Departments of Pediatrics and Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, and California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Anthony J Young
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Tetsuhiro Kajikawa
- Department of Microbiology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Athena M Soulika
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | | | | | - Ali-Reza Biglarnia
- Department of Transplantation, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Markus Huber-Lang
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Trauma-Immunology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - George Hajishengallis
- Department of Microbiology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Bo Nilsson
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - John D Lambris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Risitano AM. Therapeutic complement modulation for hematological diseases: Where we stand and where we are going. Semin Hematol 2018; 55:113-117. [PMID: 30032746 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminhematol.2018.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio M Risitano
- Hematology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery; Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
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