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Alba MA, Kermani TA, Unizony S, Murgia G, Prieto-González S, Salvarani C, Matteson EL. Relapses in giant cell arteritis: Updated review for clinical practice. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103580. [PMID: 39048072 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2024.103580] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), the most common primary vasculitis in adults, is a granulomatous systemic vasculitis usually affecting the aorta and its major branches, particularly the carotid and vertebral arteries. Although remission can be achieved in most patients with GCA using high-dose glucocorticoids (GC), relapses are frequent, occurring in >40% of GC-only treated patients, mostly during the first two years after diagnosis. Relapsing courses lead to high GC exposure, increasing the risk of treatment-related adverse effects. Although tocilizumab is an efficacious GC-sparing therapy that allows increased sustained remission and reduced cumulative GC doses, relapses are common after drug discontinuation. This narrative review examines the most relevant features of relapses in GCA, including its definition, classification, frequency, clinical, laboratory, and imaging characteristics, chronology, probable pathophysiology, and predictive factors. In addition, we discuss treatment options for relapsing patients and the effect of relapses on patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Alba
- Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Mútua Terrassa, Terrassa, Spain.
| | - Tanaz A Kermani
- Division of Rheumatology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sebastian Unizony
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giuseppe Murgia
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergio Prieto-González
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Eric L Matteson
- Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
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2
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Zhao P, An ZY, Fu HX, Liu HX, Feng CJ, Huang QS, Wu J, Wu YJ, Yang LP, Qu QY, Chen YX, Li ML, Wang CC, Chen Q, Zhu XL, He Y, Zhang YY, Jiang Q, Jiang H, Lu J, Chang YJ, Zhao XS, Zhao XY, Huang XJ, Zhang XH. Safety and efficacy of baricitinib in steroid-resistant or relapsed immune thrombocytopenia: An open-label pilot study. Am J Hematol 2024. [PMID: 38980207 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Patients with steroid-resistant or relapsed immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) suffer increased bleeding risk and impaired quality of life. Baricitinib, an oral Janus-associated kinases (JAK) inhibitor, could alleviate both innate and adaptive immune disorders without inducing thrombocytopenia in several autoimmune diseases. Accordingly, an open-label, single-arm, phase 2 trial (NCT05446831) was initiated to explore the safety and efficacy of baricitinib in ITP. Eligible patients were adults with primary ITP who were refractory to corticosteroids and at least one subsequent treatment, and had platelet counts below 30 × 109/L at enrolment. Participants received baricitinib 4 mg daily for 6 months. The primary endpoint was durable response at the 6-month follow-up. A total of 35 patients were enrolled. Durable response was achieved in 20 patients (57.1%, 95% confidence interval, 39.9 to 74.4), and initial response in 23 (65.7%) patients. For patients responding to baricitinib, the median time to response was 12 (IQR 6-20) days, and the median peak platelet count was 94 (IQR 72-128) × 109/L. Among the 27 patients undergoing extend observation, 12 (44.4%) remained responsive for a median duration of approximately 20 weeks after baricitinib discontinuation. Adverse events were reported in 11 (31.4%) patients, including infections in 6 (17.1%) patients during the treatment period. Treatment discontinuation due to an adverse event was reported in 2 (5.7%) patients. Evidence from this pilot study suggested that baricitinib might be a novel candidate for the armamentarium of ITP-modifying agents. Future studies are warranted to validate the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing of baricitinib in patients with ITP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhao
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuo-Yu An
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Xia Fu
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-Xin Liu
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng-Jie Feng
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiu-Sha Huang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Wu
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ye-Jun Wu
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Ping Yang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qing-Yuan Qu
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Xiu Chen
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Meng-Lin Li
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Chen-Cong Wang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Lu Zhu
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun He
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Zhang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Jiang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Lu
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Jun Chang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Su Zhao
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Zhao
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Huang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Zhang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Galli E, Muratore F, Warrington KJ. Current management of giant cell arteritis and its complications. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2024:00002281-990000000-00123. [PMID: 38920090 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000001029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW This review provides an update on current management strategies for giant cell arteritis (GCA), emphasizing the need for alternative therapies to reduce disease relapses and mitigate glucocorticoid (GC)-related morbidity. RECENT FINDINGS The standard of care for GCA has traditionally involved prolonged use of GC, and recent studies are exploring faster GC tapering regimens in an effort to reduce adverse effects while maintaining disease control. Randomized clinical trials have highlighted the efficacy of tocilizumab (TCZ), an interleukin-6 receptor inhibitor, in reducing disease flares and sparing GCs. However, the optimal treatment duration with TCZ is unknown and patients remain at risk of relapse after treatment discontinuation. An unmet therapeutic need persists for patients who are not candidates for TCZ, and for those who have inadequate response to this biologic. Therefore, investigations into alternative therapies such as targeting interleukin-17A, blocking T-cell activation or inhibiting the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway, showcase potential avenues for tailored treatments. SUMMARY While GCs remain the cornerstone of therapy, TCZ emerges as a promising GC-sparing agent. Ongoing research targeting different pathways implicated in GCA pathogenesis have led to encouraging results. However, the preliminary nature of these findings necessitates larger randomized controlled trials to establish their efficacy conclusively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Galli
- Rheumatology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, ASST Settelaghi, Ospedale Di Circolo - Fondazione Macchi, Varese
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
| | - Francesco Muratore
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Kenneth J Warrington
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Loricera J, Tofade T, Prieto-Peña D, Romero-Yuste S, de Miguel E, Riveros-Frutos A, Ferraz-Amaro I, Labrador E, Maiz O, Becerra E, Narváez J, Galíndez-Agirregoikoa E, González-Fernández I, Urruticoechea-Arana A, Ramos-Calvo Á, López-Gutiérrez F, Castañeda S, Unizony S, Blanco R. Effectiveness of janus kinase inhibitors in relapsing giant cell arteritis in real-world clinical practice and review of the literature. Arthritis Res Ther 2024; 26:116. [PMID: 38840219 PMCID: PMC11151571 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-024-03314-9] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A substantial proportion of patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA) relapse despite standard therapy with glucocorticoids, methotrexate and tocilizumab. The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signalling pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of GCA and JAK inhibitors (JAKi) could be a therapeutic alternative. We evaluated the effectiveness of JAKi in relapsing GCA patients in a real-world setting and reviewed available literature. METHODS Retrospective analysis of GCA patients treated with JAKi for relapsing disease at thirteen centers in Spain and one center in United States (01/2017-12/2022). Outcomes assessed included clinical remission, complete remission and safety. Clinical remission was defined as the absence of GCA signs and symptoms regardless of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) values. Complete remission was defined as the absence of GCA signs and symptoms along with normal ESR and CRP values. A systematic literature search for other JAKi-treated GCA cases was conducted. RESULTS Thirty-five patients (86% females, mean age 72.3) with relapsing GCA received JAKi therapy (baricitinib, n = 15; tofacitinib, n = 10; upadacitinib, n = 10). Before JAKi therapy, 22 (63%) patients had received conventional synthetic immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate), and 30 (86%) biologics (e.g., tocilizumab). After a median (IQR) follow-up of 11 (6-15.5) months, 20 (57%) patients achieved and maintained clinical remission, 16 (46%) patients achieved and maintained complete remission, and 15 (43%) patients discontinued the initial JAKi due to relapse (n = 11 [31%]) or serious adverse events (n = 4 [11%]). A literature search identified another 36 JAKi-treated GCA cases with clinical improvement reported for the majority of them. CONCLUSIONS This real-world analysis and literature review suggest that JAKi could be effective in GCA, including in patients failing established glucocorticoid-sparing therapies such as tocilizumab and methotrexate. A phase III randomized controlled trial of upadacitinib is currently ongoing (ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT03725202).
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Loricera
- Department of Rheumatology, IDIVAL, Immunopathology Group, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Avda. Valdecilla s/n, Santander, ES- 39008, Spain
| | - Toluwalase Tofade
- Neurology Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Diana Prieto-Peña
- Department of Rheumatology, IDIVAL, Immunopathology Group, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Avda. Valdecilla s/n, Santander, ES- 39008, Spain
| | - Susana Romero-Yuste
- Department of Rheumatology, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Pontevedra, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - Eugenio de Miguel
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anne Riveros-Frutos
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Iván Ferraz-Amaro
- Department of Rheumatology, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Canarias, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | | | - Olga Maiz
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de Donosti, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Elena Becerra
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de Elda, Alicante, Spain
| | - Javier Narváez
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Ángel Ramos-Calvo
- Department of Rheumatology, Complejo Hospitalario de Soria, Soria, Spain
| | - Fernando López-Gutiérrez
- Department of Rheumatology, IDIVAL, Immunopathology Group, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Avda. Valdecilla s/n, Santander, ES- 39008, Spain
| | - Santos Castañeda
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, IIS-Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sebastian Unizony
- Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
| | - Ricardo Blanco
- Department of Rheumatology, IDIVAL, Immunopathology Group, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Avda. Valdecilla s/n, Santander, ES- 39008, Spain.
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Bosch P, Espigol-Frigolé G, Cid MC, Mollan SP, Schmidt WA. Cranial involvement in giant cell arteritis. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2024; 6:e384-e396. [PMID: 38574747 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(24)00024-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Since its first clinical description in 1890, extensive research has advanced our understanding of giant cell arteritis, leading to improvements in both diagnosis and management for affected patients. Imaging studies have shown that the disease frequently extends beyond the typical cranial arteries, also affecting large vessels such as the aorta and its proximal branches. Meanwhile, advances in comprehending the underlying pathophysiology of giant cell arteritis have given rise to numerous potential therapeutic agents, which aim to minimise the need for glucocorticoid treatment and prevent flares. Classification criteria for giant cell arteritis, as well as recommendations for management, imaging, and treat-to-target have been developed or updated in the last 5 years, and current research encompasses a broad spectrum covering basic, translational, and clinical research. In this Series paper, we aim to discuss the current understanding of giant cell arteritis with cranial manifestations, describe the clinical approach to this condition, and explore future directions in research and patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Bosch
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Georgina Espigol-Frigolé
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Insitut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria C Cid
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Insitut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susan P Mollan
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK; Translational Brain Science, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Department of Rheumatology, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Berlin, Germany
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Esen I, Sandovici M, Heeringa P, Boots AMH, Brouwer E, van Sleen Y, Abdulahad W. Impaired IL-6-induced JAK-STAT signaling in CD4 + T cells associates with longer treatment duration in giant cell arteritis. J Autoimmun 2024; 146:103215. [PMID: 38653164 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2024.103215] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The IL-12-IFNγ-Th1 and the IL-6-IL-23-Th17 axes are considered the dominant pathogenic pathways in Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA). Both pathways signal via activation of the downstream JAK/STAT proteins. We hypothesized that phosphorylated STAT (pSTAT) signatures in circulating immune cells may aid to stratify GCA-patients for personalized treatment. METHODS To investigate pSTAT expression, PBMCs from treatment-naive GCA-patients (n = 18), infection controls (INF, n = 11) and age-matched healthy controls (HC, n = 15) were stimulated in vitro with IL-6, IL-2, IL-10, IFN-γ, M-CSF or GM-CSF, and stained with CD3, CD4, CD19, CD45RO, pSTAT1, pSTAT3, pSTAT5 antibodies, and analyzed by flow cytometry. Serum IL-6, sIL-6-receptor and gp130 were measured by Luminex. The change in percentages of pSTAT3+CD4+T-cells was evaluated at diagnosis and at 3 months and 1-year of follow-up. Kaplan-Meier analyses was used to asses prognostic accuracy. RESULTS Analysis of IL-6 stimulated immune cell subsets revealed a significant decrease in percentages of pSTAT3+CD4+T-cells of GCA-patients and INF-controls compared to HCs. Following patient stratification according to high (median>1.5 pg/mL) and low (median<1.5 pg/mL) IL-6 levels, we observed a reduction in the pSTAT3 response in GCA-patients with high serum IL-6. Percentages of pSTAT3+CD4+T-cells in patients with high serum IL-6 levels at diagnosis normalized after glucocorticoid (GC) treatment. Importantly, we found that patients with low percentages of pSTAT3+CD4+T-cells at baseline require longer GC-treatment. CONCLUSION Overall, in GCA, the percentages of in vitro IL-6-induced pSTAT3+CD4+T-cells likely reflect prior in vivo exposure to high IL-6 and may serve as a prognostic marker for GC-treatment duration and may assist improving personalized treatment options in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idil Esen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Maria Sandovici
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Heeringa
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Annemieke M H Boots
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Yannick van Sleen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Wayel Abdulahad
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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7
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Karabayas M, Ibrahim HE, Roelofs AJ, Reynolds G, Kidder D, De Bari C. Vascular disease persistence in giant cell arteritis: are stromal cells neglected? Ann Rheum Dis 2024:ard-2023-225270. [PMID: 38684323 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-225270] [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: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), the most common systemic vasculitis, is characterised by aberrant interactions between infiltrating and resident cells of the vessel wall. Ageing and breach of tolerance are prerequisites for GCA development, resulting in dendritic and T-cell dysfunction. Inflammatory cytokines polarise T-cells, activate resident macrophages and synergistically enhance vascular inflammation, providing a loop of autoreactivity. These events originate in the adventitia, commonly regarded as the biological epicentre of the vessel wall, with additional recruitment of cells that infiltrate and migrate towards the intima. Thus, GCA-vessels exhibit infiltrates across the vascular layers, with various cytokines and growth factors amplifying the pathogenic process. These events activate ineffective repair mechanisms, where dysfunctional vascular smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts phenotypically shift along their lineage and colonise the intima. While high-dose glucocorticoids broadly suppress these inflammatory events, they cause well known deleterious effects. Despite the emerging targeted therapeutics, disease relapse remains common, affecting >50% of patients. This may reflect a discrepancy between systemic and local mediators of inflammation. Indeed, temporal arteries and aortas of GCA-patients can show immune-mediated abnormalities, despite the treatment induced clinical remission. The mechanisms of persistence of vascular disease in GCA remain elusive. Studies in other chronic inflammatory diseases point to the fibroblasts (and their lineage cells including myofibroblasts) as possible orchestrators or even effectors of disease chronicity through interactions with immune cells. Here, we critically review the contribution of immune and stromal cells to GCA pathogenesis and analyse the molecular mechanisms by which these would underpin the persistence of vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maira Karabayas
- Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Hafeez E Ibrahim
- Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Anke J Roelofs
- Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Gary Reynolds
- Centre for Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dana Kidder
- Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Cosimo De Bari
- Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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8
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Zhou Z, Fang C, Wang L, Li J, Yang Y, Zhang L, Jin S, Zeng X, Tian X. Baricitinib for refractory Takayasu arteritis: a prospective cohort study in a tertiary referral centre. RMD Open 2024; 10:e003985. [PMID: 38519108 PMCID: PMC10961550 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003985] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the treatment efficacy and safety of baricitinib in patients with refractory Takayasu arteritis (TAK). METHODS We performed a prospective cohort study in which baricitinib 4 mg daily was prescribed to patients with refractory TAK, combined with oral glucocorticoids (GCs). RESULTS 10 patients with refractory TAK were enrolled with a median age of 28 (IQR=22-37) years, median disease duration of 50 (IQR=24-65) months. The median dose of GCs was 10 (IQR=8.1-22.5) mg prednisone or equivalence dosage at baseline. At 6 months of baricitinib treatment, 6/10 (60%) patients had an overall treatment response. During an average follow-up of 15.3 (range 4-31) months, 4/10 (40%) patients maintained overall treatment response. 8/10 (80%) patients tapered or maintained the same dose of GCs with no change of the combined classical synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. Two patients discontinued GCs at 18 and 24 months and were in continuous remission till the end of the study. One patient withdrew baricitinib due to liver dysfunction. CONCLUSION Baricitinib 4 mg daily is effective for refractory TAK and is well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyue Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng-qu, Beijing, China
| | - Chenglong Fang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng-qu, Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, The Third People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan province, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng-qu, Beijing, China
| | - Yunjiao Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng-qu, Beijing, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng-qu, Beijing, China
| | - Shangyi Jin
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng-qu, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng-qu, Beijing, China
| | - Xinping Tian
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng-qu, Beijing, China
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9
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Balogh L, Oláh K, Sánta S, Majerhoffer N, Németh T. Novel and potential future therapeutic options in systemic autoimmune diseases. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1249500. [PMID: 38558805 PMCID: PMC10978744 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1249500] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune inflammation is caused by the loss of tolerance to specific self-antigens and can result in organ-specific or systemic disorders. Systemic autoimmune diseases affect a significant portion of the population with an increasing rate of incidence, which means that is essential to have effective therapies to control these chronic disorders. Unfortunately, several patients with systemic autoimmune diseases do not respond at all or just partially respond to available conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and targeted therapies. However, during the past few years, some new medications have been approved and can be used in real-life clinical settings. Meanwhile, several new candidates appeared and can offer promising novel treatment options in the future. Here, we summarize the newly available medications and the most encouraging drug candidates in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's disease, systemic sclerosis, systemic vasculitis, and autoimmune myositis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Balogh
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University School of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE “Lendület” Translational Rheumatology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Oláh
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University School of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE “Lendület” Translational Rheumatology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Soma Sánta
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University School of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE “Lendület” Translational Rheumatology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nóra Majerhoffer
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University School of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE “Lendület” Translational Rheumatology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Németh
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University School of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE “Lendület” Translational Rheumatology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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10
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Paroli M, Caccavale R, Accapezzato D. Giant Cell Arteritis: Advances in Understanding Pathogenesis and Implications for Clinical Practice. Cells 2024; 13:267. [PMID: 38334659 PMCID: PMC10855045 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030267] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a noninfectious granulomatous vasculitis of unknown etiology affecting individuals older than 50 years. Two forms of GCA have been identified: a cranial form involving the medium-caliber temporal artery causing temporal arteritis (TA) and an extracranial form involving the large vessels, mainly the thoracic aorta and its branches. GCA generally affects individuals with a genetic predisposition, but several epigenetic (micro)environmental factors are often critical for the onset of this vasculitis. A key role in the pathogenesis of GCA is played by cells of both the innate and adaptive immune systems, which contribute to the formation of granulomas that may include giant cells, a hallmark of the disease, and arterial tertiary follicular organs. Cells of the vessel wall cells, including vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells, actively contribute to vascular remodeling responsible for vascular stenosis and ischemic complications. This review will discuss new insights into the molecular and cellular pathogenetic mechanisms of GCA, as well as the implications of these findings for the development of new diagnostic biomarkers and targeted drugs that could hopefully replace glucocorticoids (GCs), still the backbone of therapy for this vasculitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marino Paroli
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy; (R.C.); (D.A.)
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11
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Kaymakci MS, Warrington KJ, Kermani TA. New Therapeutic Approaches to Large-Vessel Vasculitis. Annu Rev Med 2024; 75:427-442. [PMID: 37683286 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-med-060622-100940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK) are large-vessel vasculitides affecting the aorta and its branches. Arterial damage from these diseases may result in ischemic complications, aneurysms, and dissections. Despite their similarities, the management of GCA and TAK differs. Glucocorticoids are used frequently but relapses are common, and glucocorticoid toxicity contributes to significant morbidity. Conventional immunosuppressive therapies can be beneficial in TAK, though their role in the management of GCA remains unclear. Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors improve remission rates and appear to limit vascular damage in TAK; these agents are not beneficial in GCA. Tocilizumab is the first biologic glucocorticoid-sparing agent approved for use in GCA and also appears to be effective in TAK. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of both conditions and the availability of targeted therapies hold much promise for future management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmut S Kaymakci
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; ,
| | - Kenneth J Warrington
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; ,
| | - Tanaz A Kermani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Santa Monica, California, USA;
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12
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Greigert H, Ramon A, Genet C, Cladière C, Gerard C, Cuidad M, Corbera-Bellalta M, Alba-Rovira R, Arnould L, Creuzot-Garcher C, Martin L, Tarris G, Ghesquière T, Ouandji S, Audia S, Cid MC, Bonnotte B, Samson M. Neointimal myofibroblasts contribute to maintaining Th1/Tc1 and Th17/Tc17 inflammation in giant cell arteritis. J Autoimmun 2024; 142:103151. [PMID: 38039746 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2023.103151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) have been shown to play a role in the pathogenesis of giant cell arteritis (GCA) through their capacity to produce chemokines recruiting T cells and monocytes in the arterial wall and their ability to migrate and proliferate in the neointima where they acquire a myofibroblast (MF) phenotype, leading to vascular stenosis. This study aimed to investigate if MFs could also impact T-cell polarization. Confocal microscopy was used to analyze fresh fragments of temporal artery biopsies (TABs). Healthy TAB sections were cultured to obtain MFs, which were then treated or not with interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and analyzed by immunofluorescence and RT-PCR. After peripheral blood mononuclear cells and MFs were co-cultured for seven days, T-cell polarization was analyzed by flow cytometry. In the neointima of GCA arteries, we observed a phenotypic heterogeneity among VSMCs that was consistent with a MF phenotype (α-SMA+CD90+desmin+MYH11+) with a high level of STAT1 phosphorylation. Co-culture experiments showed that MFs sustain Th1/Tc1 and Th17/Tc17 polarizations. The increased Th1 and Tc1 polarization was further enhanced following the stimulation of MFs with IFN-γ and TNF-α, which induced STAT1 phosphorylation in MFs. These findings correlated with increases in the production of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12 and IL-23 by MFs. Our study showed that MFs play an additional role in the pathogenesis of GCA through their ability to maintain Th17/Tc17 and Th1/Tc1 polarizations, the latter being further enhanced in case of stimulation of MF with IFN-γ and TNF-α.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Greigert
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases (MAIS), Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Department of Vascular Medicine, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - André Ramon
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France; Department of Rheumatology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Coraline Genet
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Claudie Cladière
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Claire Gerard
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Marion Cuidad
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Marc Corbera-Bellalta
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Institut D'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Alba-Rovira
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Institut D'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Louis Arnould
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | | | - Laurent Martin
- Department of Pathology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Georges Tarris
- Department of Pathology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Thibault Ghesquière
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases (MAIS), Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Sethi Ouandji
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases (MAIS), Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Sylvain Audia
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases (MAIS), Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Maria C Cid
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Institut D'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernard Bonnotte
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases (MAIS), Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Maxime Samson
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases (MAIS), Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-21000, Dijon, France.
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13
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Chu CQ. Advances and challenges in management of large vessel vasculitis. RHEUMATOLOGY AND IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2023; 4:188-195. [PMID: 38125643 PMCID: PMC10729599 DOI: 10.2478/rir-2023-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GC) remains the mainstay for management of large vessel vasculitis (LVV). Recent introduction of interleukin-6 signaling blocker, tocilizumab has substantially changed the practice in management of patients with LVV, in particular, giant cell arteritis (GCA). Benefit of tocilizumab to patients with Takayasu arteritis (TAK) is supported by observational studies, but randomized clinical trials are lacking. Addition of tocilizumab enables reduction of the total amount of GC in patients with GCA, but GC burden remains high and to be further reduced. Ongoing studies aim at minimal use of GC or even GC-free. Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors appear to be beneficial to TAK despite their ineffectiveness to GCA. Randomized clinical trials are undergoing to target other inflammatory cytokines in both GCA and TAK. Janus kinase inhibitors alone or in combination with conventional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs showed promising results in treatment of TAK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong-Qiu Chu
- Division of Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases, Oregon Health & Science University, PortlandOregon 97239USA
- Rheumatology Section, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, PortlandOregon 97239USA
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14
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Florescu MM, Bobircă F, Florescu A, Pădureanu V, Bobircă A, Ciurea PL, Criveanu C, Florescu LM, Muşetescu AE. Polymyalgia rheumatica: An update (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:543. [PMID: 37928511 PMCID: PMC10623218 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12242] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disease which affects the connective vascular tissue, characterized by pain accompanied by morning stiffness, predominantly of the neck muscles, hip and shoulder girdle. Usually, patients with this disease are >50 years of age and biological inflammatory syndrome is present with an increase in both the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels, aspects similar to giant cell arteritis. The aim of the present review was to depict the current pathogenic hypothesis, diagnostic and treatment approach for patients with PMR, and novelties since the development of the currently used 2012 European League Against Rheumatism and American College of Rheumatology provisional classification criteria. PMR is a prevalent disease that can occasionally prove difficult to diagnose and treat. Possibly, the most abundant type of evidence and data revealed over the past decade have been acquired through musculoskeletal imaging, with implications in diagnosis, disease monitoring and relapse, prognosis and changes with treatment. Further research on pathophysiology is required to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying processes, which will serve as the foundation for future personalized treatments. In addition, there is an increasing demand for improved diagnostic techniques, which should include a further development of various imaging modalities, in order to provide accurate diagnosis and appropriate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Marinela Florescu
- Department of Pathology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Florin Bobircă
- Department of General Surgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dr I. Cantacuzino Clinical Hospital, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alesandra Florescu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Vlad Pădureanu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Anca Bobircă
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Paulina Lucia Ciurea
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Cristina Criveanu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Lucian Mihai Florescu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Anca Emanuela Muşetescu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
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15
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Ma X, Liu H, Jia Q, Zheng Y, Li W, Chang M, Fu H, Zhu H. Diverse roles of glucocorticoids in the ruminant mammary gland: modulation of mammary growth, milk production, and mastitis. Stress 2023; 26:2252938. [PMID: 37632459 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2023.2252938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
As endocrine hormones, glucocorticoids (GCs) play a pivotal role in numerous physiological processes, including mammary growth and lactation, circulatory metabolism, and responses to external stimuli. In the dairy industry, milk production from cows or goats is important for newborns and economic benefits. However, the milk yields from ruminant animals are always affected by the extent of mammary development, mammary disease, stress, or changes in metabolism. Thus, it is necessary to clarify how GCs changes in ruminants affect ruminant mammary gland function and mammary disease. This review summarizes the findings identifying that GCs modulate mammary gland development before lactation, but the stress-induced excessive release of GCs leads to milk production loss. In addition, the manner of GCs release may change under different concentrations of metabolites or during mastitis or inflammatory challenge. Nevertheless, exogenous GCs administration to animals may alleviate the clinical symptoms of mastitis. This review demonstrates that GCs offer a fascinating contribution to both physiologic and pathogenic conditions of the mammary gland in ruminant animals. Characterizing and understanding these changes or functions of endogenous and exogenous GCs in animals will be crucial for developing more endocrine regulators and therapies for improving milk production in ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyue Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hanling Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qianqian Jia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yumiao Zheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wentao Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengyu Chang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haixia Fu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongmei Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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16
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Moreel L, Betrains A, Molenberghs G, Blockmans D, Vanderschueren S. Duration of Treatment With Glucocorticoids in Giant Cell Arteritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Clin Rheumatol 2023; 29:291-297. [PMID: 36126266 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The aim of this meta-analysis was to estimate the mean duration of glucocorticoid (GC) treatment in patients with giant cell arteritis. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception until November 30, 2021. The outcome measures were the proportion of patients on GCs at years 1, 2, and 5 after diagnosis and the mean GC dose (in the entire cohort and expressed in prednisone equivalents) at these time points. Twenty-two studies involving a total of 1786 patients were included. The pooled proportions of patients taking GCs at years 1, 2, and 5 were 89.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 83.2%-93.9%), 75.2% (95% CI, 58.7%-86.6%), and 44.3% (95% CI, 15.2%-77.6%), respectively. The pooled GC dose at years 1 and 2 was 9.1 mg/d (95% CI, 2.8-15.5 mg/d) and 7.8 mg/d (95% CI, 1.4-14.1 mg/d), respectively. The proportion of patients taking GCs at year 1 was lower in multicenter studies ( p = 0.003), in randomized controlled trials ( p = 0.01), and in studies using a GC-tapering schedule ( p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in the proportion of patients taking GCs at years 1 and 2 according to study design (retrospective vs. prospective), initial GC dose, use of pulse GCs, publication year, enrolment period, duration of follow-up, age, and sex. This meta-analysis showed that giant cell arteritis is a chronic disease that requires substantial and prolonged GC treatment in a considerable proportion of patients. A predefined GC-tapering schedule may help to avoid inadequately long GC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Geert Molenberghs
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics (L-biostat), KU Leuven and Hasselt University, Leuven, Belgium
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17
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Yamaoka K, Oku K. JAK inhibitors in rheumatology. Immunol Med 2023; 46:143-152. [PMID: 36744577 DOI: 10.1080/25785826.2023.2172808] [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: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis) are a group of drugs with a different mechanism of action from biologics and are most rapidly uptaken in the rheumatology field. JAK is a protein kinase activated in the cytoplasm by multiple cytokines and hormones involved in inflammatory pathology. The expression of JAK has been observed in various diseases, indicating the utility of JAK inhibitors in a wide variety of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Clinical trials are underway for a number of different rheumatic diseases based on the therapeutic efficacy of JAKis, which is comparable to that of biologics. This article will review the current status of JAKis for rheumatic diseases in terms of efficacy and safety and extend to future clinical applications for rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunihiro Yamaoka
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kenji Oku
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
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18
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Nepal D, Putman M, Unizony S. Giant Cell Arteritis and Polymyalgia Rheumatica: Treatment Approaches and New Targets. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2023; 49:505-521. [PMID: 37331730 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2023.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Prolonged glucocorticoid tapers have been the standard of care for giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), but recent advancements have improved outcomes for patients with GCA while reducing glucocorticoid-related toxicities. Many patients with GCA and PMR still experience persistent or relapsing disease, and cumulative exposure to glucocorticoids for both diseases remains high. The objective of this review is to define current treatment approaches as well as new therapeutic targets and strategies. Studies investigating inhibition of cytokine pathways, including interleukin-6, interleukin-17, interleukin-23, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, Janus kinase-signal transduction and activator of transcription, and others, will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desh Nepal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Hub for Collaborative Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Rheumatology, 6th Floor, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| | - Michael Putman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Hub for Collaborative Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Rheumatology, 6th Floor, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Sebastian Unizony
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Yawkey 4B, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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19
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van Nieuwland M, Esen I, Reitsema RD, Abdulahad WH, van Sleen Y, Jiemy WF, Sandovici M, Brouwer E, van Bon L. Evidence for increased interferon type I activity in CD8+ T cells in giant cell arteritis patients. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1197293. [PMID: 37398666 PMCID: PMC10312374 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1197293] [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: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a vasculitis of the medium- and large-sized arteries. Interferon type I (IFN-I) is increasingly recognized as a key player in autoimmune diseases and might be involved in GCA pathogenesis, however evidence is limited. IFN-I activates Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathways, leading to increased expression of interferon stimulated genes. In this study, IFN-I activity in GCA is explored, focusing on CD8+ T cells. Methods Expression of phospho-STAT (pSTAT) 1, 3 and 5 was investigated in IFN-α-stimulated peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMCs) gated separately for CD8+ T cells of patients with GCA (n=18), healthy controls (HC, n=15) and infection controls (n=11) by Phosphoflow method combined with fluorescent cell barcoding technique. Furthermore, IFN-I induced myxovirus-resistance protein A (MxA) and CD8+ T cell expression was investigated by immunohistochemistry in temporal artery biopsies (TAB) of GCA patients (n=20) and mimics (n=20), and in aorta tissue of GCA (n=8) and atherosclerosis patients (n=14). Results pSTAT1 expression was increased in IFN-α stimulated CD8+ T cells from GCA patients, whereas no difference was observed in pSTAT3 and pSTAT5 expression. MxA was present in TABs of 13/20 GCA patients compared to 2/20 mimics and in 8/8 GCA+ compared to 13/14 GCA- aorta tissues. MxA location partially co-localized with CD8+T cells. Conclusions Our results provide evidence for increased IFN-I activity in CD8+ T cells of GCA patients, both systemically and locally. These findings warrant further investigation regarding IFN-I induced biomarkers and IFN-I related novel therapeutic options in GCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke van Nieuwland
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Hospital Group Twente (Ziekenhuisgroep Twente), Almelo, Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Idil Esen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Rosanne D. Reitsema
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Wayel H. Abdulahad
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Yannick van Sleen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - William F. Jiemy
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Maria Sandovici
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Lenny van Bon
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Hospital Group Twente (Ziekenhuisgroep Twente), Almelo, Netherlands
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20
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Carvajal Alegria G, Nicolas M, van Sleen Y. Biomarkers in the era of targeted therapy in giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica: is it possible to replace acute-phase reactants? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1202160. [PMID: 37398679 PMCID: PMC10313393 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1202160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Research into giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) has become more important in the last few decades. Physicians are facing several challenges in managing the diagnosis, treatment, and relapses of GCA and PMR patients. The search for biomarkers could provide elements to guide a physician's decision. In this review, we aim to summarize the scientific publications about biomarkers in GCA and PMR in the past decade. The first point raised by this review is the number of clinical situations in which biomarkers could be useful: differential diagnosis of either GCA or PMR, diagnosis of underlying vasculitis in PMR, prediction of relapse or complications, disease activity monitoring, choice, and modification of treatments. The second point raised by this review is the large number of biomarkers studied, from common markers like C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or elements of blood count to inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, or immune cell subpopulations. Finally, this review underlines the heterogeneity between the studies and proposes points to consider in studies evaluating biomarkers in general and particularly in the case of GCA and PMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Carvajal Alegria
- EA6295 Nanomédicaments et Nanosondes, Université de Tours, Tours, France
- Department of Rheumatology, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire (CHRU) de Tours, Tours Cedex, France
| | - Mathilde Nicolas
- Department of Rheumatology, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire (CHRU) de Tours, Tours Cedex, France
| | - Yannick van Sleen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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21
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Venhoff N, Schmidt WA, Bergner R, Rech J, Unger L, Tony HP, Finzel S, Andreica I, Kofler DM, Weiner SM, Lamprecht P, Schulze-Koops H, App C, Pournara E, Mendelson MH, Sieder C, Maricos M, Thiel J. Safety and efficacy of secukinumab in patients with giant cell arteritis (TitAIN): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2 trial. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2023; 5:e341-e350. [PMID: 38251601 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(23)00101-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of giant cell arteritis with glucocorticoid-sparing agents is an unmet medical need. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of secukinumab, an anti-interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody, in patients with giant cell arteritis. METHODS We conducted a Bayesian randomised, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre, phase 2 study at 11 clinics or hospitals in Germany. Patients aged 50 years or older with new-onset or relapsing giant cell arteritis who were naive to biological therapy and already receiving glucocorticoids with a prednisolone equivalent dose of 25-60 mg/day were eligible for inclusion. Participants were assigned (1:1) to receive 300 mg secukinumab or placebo subcutaneously once a week up to week 4 and every 4 weeks thereafter. In both treatment groups, prednisolone dose was tapered down to 0 mg over a 26-week period. Patients, investigator staff, and clinical trial team were masked to the treatment assignment. The primary endpoint was the median proportion (Bayesian analysis) of patients with sustained remission until week 28 in the full analysis set (ie, all patients who received at least one dose of assigned treatment, analysed according to treatment assigned at randomisation). Sustained remission rate of the placebo group from a previous trial of tocilizumab in patients with giant cell arteritis was used to derive the prior distribution of placebo sustained remission rate for the primary endpoint. The safety of secukinumab was assessed in the safety set (ie, all patients who received at least one dose of study treatment, analysed according to study treatment received). This trial is completed and is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03765788. FINDINGS Of the 65 patients who were assessed for eligibility, 52 patients (median age 75 years [IQR 69-79]; 35 [67%] female and 17 [33%] male, 52 [100%] White) were enrolled between Jan 30, 2019 and March 30, 2020 and were randomly assigned to receive secukinumab (n=27) or placebo (n=25). Four of 27 patients in the secukinumab group and eight of 25 patients in the placebo group discontinued treatment by week 28 of the study. On the basis of the Bayesian analysis, the median proportion of patients in sustained remission until week 28 was 70% (95% credibility interval 52-85) in the secukinumab group versus 20% (12-30) in the placebo group. The incidence of adverse events was similar in the secukinumab (27 [100%] of 27 patients had any adverse event) and placebo groups (24 [96%] of 25 patients had any adverse event); the most common adverse events were hypertension (six [22%] of 27 patients in the secukinumab group and eight [32%] of 25 patients in the placebo group) and nasopharyngitis (five [19%] of 27 patients in the secukinumab group and five [20%] of 25 patients in the placebo group). Two patients (one in each group) died during the study, neither of which was considered to be related to study treatment. INTERPRETATION Patients with active giant cell arteritis had a higher sustained remission rate in the secukinumab group than in the placebo group at week 28, in combination with glucocorticoid taper regimen. Secukinumab was tolerated well with no new safety concerns. This proof-of-concept phase 2 study further supports the development of secukinumab as a treatment option for people with giant cell arteritis. FUNDING Novartis Pharma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Venhoff
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Centre-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Berlin, Germany
| | - Raoul Bergner
- Medizinische Klinik A, Klinikum der Stadt Ludwigshafen, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Jürgen Rech
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Leonore Unger
- Medical Department 1, Städtisches Klinikum Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Tony
- Department of Medicine 2, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Finzel
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Centre-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ioana Andreica
- Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet Herne, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - David M Kofler
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Stefan M Weiner
- Medical Department 2, Krankenhaus der Barmherzigen Brüder Trier, Medical Campus of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Trier, Germany
| | - Peter Lamprecht
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hendrik Schulze-Koops
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jens Thiel
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Centre-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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22
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Eriksson P, Skoglund O, Hemgren C, Sjöwall C. Clinical experience and safety of Janus kinase inhibitors in giant cell arteritis: a retrospective case series from Sweden. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1187584. [PMID: 37304255 PMCID: PMC10247956 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1187584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The Janus kinase (JAK)-STAT signaling pathway is relevant in both Takayasu and giant cell arteritis (GCA), and the use of JAK inhibitors (JAKi) in arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease is nowadays common. Some evidence of the clinical efficacy of JAKi in GCA exists and a phase III randomized controlled trial (RCT) of upadacitinib is currently recruiting. In 2017, we started using barcitinib in a GCA patient with inadequate response to corticosteroids, and later on, we treated other 14 GCA patients with baricitinib/tofacitinib during intense follow-up. The retrospective data of these 15 individuals are here summarized. GCA was diagnosed based on the ACR criteria and/or imaging techniques combined with increased C-reactive protein (CRP) and/or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) followed by a good initial response to corticosteroids. JAKi was initiated based on inflammatory activity, with increased CRP, presumably dependent on GCA with clinical symptoms, despite unsatisfying high doses of prednisolone. The mean age at JAKi initiation was 70.1 years and the mean exposure to JAKi was 19 months. From initiation, significant reductions in CRP were seen already at 3 (p = 0.02) and 6 (p = 0.02) months. A slower decrease was observed regarding ESR at 3 (p = 0.12) and 6 (p = 0.02) months. Furthermore, the daily prednisolone doses were reduced at 3 (p = 0.02) and 6 (p = 0.004) months. No GCA relapses were observed. Two patients were affected by serious infections, but JAKi therapy was retained or reintroduced after recovery. We present encouraging observational data on JAKi in GCA in one of the hitherto largest case series with long-term follow-up. Our clinical experiences will complement the results from the awaited RCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Eriksson
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection/Rheumatology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Oliver Skoglund
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection/Rheumatology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Hemgren
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, County Hospital Ryhov, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Christopher Sjöwall
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection/Rheumatology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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23
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Correia JA, Crespo J, Alves G, Salvador F, Matos-Costa J, Alves JD, Fortuna J, Almeida I, Campar A, Brandão M, Faria R, Marado D, Oliveira S, Santos L, Silva F, Vasconcelos C, Fernandes M, Marinho A. Biologic therapy in large and small vessels vasculitis, and Behçet's disease: Evidence- and practice-based guidance. Autoimmun Rev 2023:103362. [PMID: 37230310 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103362] [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: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vasculitis are a very heterogenous group of systemic autoimmune diseases, affecting large vessels (LVV), small vessels or presenting as a multisystemic variable vessel vasculitis. We aimed to define evidence and practice-based recommendations for the use of biologics in large and small vessels vasculitis, and Behçet's disease (BD). METHODS Recommendations were made by an independent expert panel, following a comprehensive literature review and two consensus rounds. The panel included 17 internal medicine experts with recognized practice on autoimmune diseases management. The literature review was systematic from 2014 until 2019 and later updated by cross-reference checking and experts' input until 2022. Preliminary recommendations were drafted by working groups for each disease and voted in two rounds, in June and September 2021. Recommendations with at least 75% agreement were approved. RESULTS A total of 32 final recommendations (10 for LVV treatment, 7 for small vessels vasculitis and 15 for BD) were approved by the experts and several biologic drugs were considered with different supporting evidence. Among LVV treatment options, tocilizumab presents the higher level of supporting evidence. Rituximab is recommended for treatment of severe/refractory cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. Infliximab and adalimumab are most recommended in treatment of severe/refractory BD manifestations. Other biologic drugs can be considered is specific presentations. CONCLUSION These evidence and practice-based recommendations are a contribute to treatment decision and may, ultimately, improve the outcome of patients living with these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Araújo Correia
- Serviço de Medicina Interna, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; Unidade de Imunologia Clínica, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Crespo
- Serviço de Medicina Interna, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Professor Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Glória Alves
- Serviço de Medicina Interna, Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira, Centro Hospitalar Alto Ave, Rua dos Cutileiros 4810-055, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Fernando Salvador
- Unidade de Doenças Autoimunes, Serviço de Medicina Interna, Centro Hospitalar de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Avenida da Noruega, 5000-508 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - João Matos-Costa
- Serviço de Medicina Interna, Hospital Distrital de Santarém, Avenida Bernardo Santareno, 2005-177 Santarém,Portugal
| | - José Delgado Alves
- Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, IC19 - 2720-276, Amadora, Portugal; 4Immune Response and Vascular Disease Unit - iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School; R. Câmara Pestana 6, 1150-082 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jorge Fortuna
- Serviço de Medicina Interna, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Professor Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Isabel Almeida
- Unidade de Imunologia Clínica, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Campar
- Unidade de Imunologia Clínica, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Brandão
- Unidade de Imunologia Clínica, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Raquel Faria
- Unidade de Imunologia Clínica, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniela Marado
- Serviço de Medicina Interna, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Professor Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Susana Oliveira
- Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, IC19 - 2720-276, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Lelita Santos
- Serviço de Medicina Interna, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Professor Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Coimbra, R. Larga 2, 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal; CIMAGO, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Coimbra, R. Larga 2, 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Fátima Silva
- Serviço de Medicina Interna, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Professor Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos Vasconcelos
- Unidade de Imunologia Clínica, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Milene Fernandes
- RWE & Late Phase, CTI Clinical Trial & Consulting Services Unipessoal Lda, R. Tierno Galvan, 1250-096 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Marinho
- Unidade de Imunologia Clínica, Departamento de Medicina, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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Wang Z, Wang X, Liu W, Wang Y, Liu J, Zhang L, Zhang S, Tian X, Zhao Y, Zheng W. Baricitinib for the treatment of refractory vascular Behçet's disease. Clin Immunol 2023; 250:109298. [PMID: 36967024 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The pilot study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of baricitinib in Behcet's Disease (BD) patients with refractory vascular involvement. METHODS We consecutively enrolled vascular/cardiac BD patients who received baricitinib (2 mg/day) along with glucocorticoids (GCs) and immunosuppressants in our center. Efficacy assessment mainly depends on the proportion of clinical remission and side effects were recorded. RESULTS 17 patients (12 males) were included with a mean follow-up of 10.7 ± 5.3 months. At 3 months of follow-up, 76.5% of patients achieved a complete response and the proportion increased to 88.2% at the last visit. During follow-up, ESR (p < 0.01) and hsCRP (p < 0.0001) decreased significantly, as well as Behçet's Disease Current Activity Form score (p < 0.01). In addition, baricitinib showed a GCs-sparing effect. No serious adverse events were noted. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that baricitinib is well-tolerated and effective in treating refractory vascular/cardiac BD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimian Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiaoou Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai'an, Shan Dong, 271000, China
| | - Yuhua Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Jinjing Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Shangzhu Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xinping Tian
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Wenjie Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
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25
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Ford JA, Gewurz D, Gewurz-Singer O. Tocilizumab in giant cell arteritis: an update for the clinician. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2023; 35:135-140. [PMID: 36912060 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The recent approval of tocilizumab (TCZ) for the treatment of giant cell arteritis (GCA) has changed the landscape for management of this disease. Herein, we review recent literature addressing practical questions for the clinician regarding the use of TCZ in GCA. We evaluate efficacy of TCZ across different disease phenotypes, optimal dosing and formulation, treatment-related toxicity, recommendations for monitoring disease, and duration of therapy. RECENT FINDINGS Post-hoc analyses of a large clinical trial and real-world data suggest efficacy of TCZ across various disease phenotypes in GCA, and support use of weekly subcutaneous dosing over every-other-week dosing. More data are needed to guide duration of TCZ therapy, optimal disease activity monitoring in patients treated with TCZ, and to speak to efficacy in GCA with large vessel involvement. SUMMARY TCZ has added valuably to the treatment arsenal in GCA, though more data are needed to guide optimal use of the drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Ford
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Ora Gewurz-Singer
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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26
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Springer JM, Kermani TA. Recent advances in the treatment of giant cell arteritis. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2023; 37:101830. [PMID: 37328409 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2023.101830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic, granulomatous, large-vessel vasculitis that affects individuals over the age of 50 years. Morbidity from disease includes cranial manifestations which can cause irreversible blindness, while extra-cranial manifestations can cause vascular damage with large-artery stenosis, occlusions, aortitis, aneurysms, and dissections. Glucocorticoids while efficacious are associated with significant adverse effects. Furthermore, despite treatment with glucocorticoids, relapses are common. An understanding of the pathogenesis of GCA has led to the discovery of tocilizumab as an efficacious steroid-sparing therapy while additional therapeutic targets affecting different inflammatory pathways are under investigation. Surgical treatment may be indicated in cases of refractory ischemia or aortic complications but data on surgical outcomes are limited. Despite the recent advances, many unmet needs exist, including the identification of patients or subsets of GCA who would benefit from earlier initiation of adjunctive therapies, patients who may warrant long-term immunosuppression and medications that sustain permanent remission. The impact of medications like tocilizumab on long-term outcomes, including the development of aortic aneurysms and vascular damage also warrants investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Springer
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21st Avenue Sound, T3113 Medical Center North, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| | - Tanaz A Kermani
- University of California Los Angeles, 2020 Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 540, Santa Monica, CA, 90404, USA.
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Abstract
Giant cell arteritis is an autoimmune disease of medium and large arteries, characterized by granulomatous inflammation of the three-layered vessel wall that results in vaso-occlusion, wall dissection, and aneurysm formation. The immunopathogenesis of giant cell arteritis is an accumulative process in which a prolonged asymptomatic period is followed by uncontrolled innate immunity, a breakdown in self-tolerance, the transition of autoimmunity from the periphery into the vessel wall and, eventually, the progressive evolution of vessel wall inflammation. Each of the steps in pathogenesis corresponds to specific immuno-phenotypes that provide mechanistic insights into how the immune system attacks and damages blood vessels. Clinically evident disease begins with inappropriate activation of myeloid cells triggering the release of hepatic acute phase proteins and inducing extravascular manifestations, such as muscle pains and stiffness diagnosed as polymyalgia rheumatica. Loss of self-tolerance in the adaptive immune system is linked to aberrant signaling in the NOTCH pathway, leading to expansion of NOTCH1+CD4+ T cells and the functional decline of NOTCH4+ T regulatory cells (Checkpoint 1). A defect in the endothelial cell barrier of adventitial vasa vasorum networks marks Checkpoint 2; the invasion of monocytes, macrophages and T cells into the arterial wall. Due to the failure of the immuno-inhibitory PD-1 (programmed cell death protein 1)/PD-L1 (programmed cell death ligand 1) pathway, wall-infiltrating immune cells arrive in a permissive tissues microenvironment, where multiple T cell effector lineages thrive, shift toward high glycolytic activity, and support the development of tissue-damaging macrophages, including multinucleated giant cells (Checkpoint 3). Eventually, the vascular lesions are occupied by self-renewing T cells that provide autonomy to the disease process and limit the therapeutic effectiveness of currently used immunosuppressants. The multi-step process deviating protective to pathogenic immunity offers an array of interception points that provide opportunities for the prevention and therapeutic management of this devastating autoimmune disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia M. Weyand
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94306
| | - Jörg J. Goronzy
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94306
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Matsumoto K, Suzuki K, Takeshita M, Takeuchi T, Kaneko Y. Changes in the molecular profiles of large-vessel vasculitis treated with biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and Janus kinase inhibitors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1197342. [PMID: 37197652 PMCID: PMC10183585 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1197342] [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: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis are two types of primary large-vessel vasculitis (LVV). Although glucocorticoids (GC) are the standard treatment for LVV, the disease relapse rates are high. Recent clinical trials on biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have demonstrated their efficacy in reducing LVV relapse rates and GC dosages. However, the control of residual inflammation and degenerative alterations in the vessel wall remains an outstanding requirement in the clinical management of LVV. The analysis of immune cell phenotypes in patients with LVV may predict their response to treatment with bDMARDs and JAK inhibitors and guide their optimal use. In this mini-review, we focused on molecular markers, including the immune cell proportions and gene expression, in patients with LVV and in mouse models of LVV treated with bDMARDs and JAK inhibitors.
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Samson M, Genet C, Corbera-Bellalta M, Greigert H, Espígol-Frigolé G, Gérard C, Cladière C, Alba-Rovira R, Ciudad M, Gabrielle PH, Creuzot-Garcher C, Tarris G, Martin L, Saas P, Audia S, Bonnotte B, Cid MC. Human monocyte-derived suppressive cells (HuMoSC) for cell therapy in giant cell arteritis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1137794. [PMID: 36895571 PMCID: PMC9989212 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1137794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The pathogenesis of Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) relies on vascular inflammation and vascular remodeling, the latter being poorly controlled by current treatments. Methods This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a novel cell therapy, Human Monocyte-derived Suppressor Cells (HuMoSC), on inflammation and vascular remodeling to improve GCA treatment. Fragments of temporal arteries (TAs) from GCA patients were cultured alone or in the presence of HuMoSCs or their supernatant. After five days, mRNA expression was measured in the TAs and proteins were measured in culture supernatant. The proliferation and migration capacity of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were also analyzed with or without HuMoSC supernatant. Results Transcripts of genes implicated in vascular inflammation (CCL2, CCR2, CXCR3, HLADR), vascular remodeling (PDGF, PDGFR), angiogenesis (VEGF) and extracellular matrix composition (COL1A1, COL3A1 and FN1) were decreased in arteries treated with HuMoSCs or their supernatant. Likewise, concentrations of collagen-1 and VEGF were lower in the supernatants of TAs cultivated with HuMoSCs. In the presence of PDGF, the proliferation and migration of VSMCs were both decreased after treatment with HuMoSC supernatant. Study of the PDGF pathway suggests that HuMoSCs act through inhibition of mTOR activity. Finally, we show that HuMoSCs could be recruited in the arterial wall through the implication of CCR5 and its ligands. Conclusion Altogether, our results suggest that HuMoSCs or their supernatant could be useful to decrease vascular in flammation and remodeling in GCA, the latter being an unmet need in GCA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Samson
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France.,Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France.,Vasculitis Research Unit, Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CRB-CELLEX, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Coraline Genet
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France
| | - Marc Corbera-Bellalta
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CRB-CELLEX, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hélène Greigert
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France.,Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France
| | - Georgina Espígol-Frigolé
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CRB-CELLEX, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claire Gérard
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France
| | - Claudie Cladière
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France
| | - Roser Alba-Rovira
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CRB-CELLEX, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marion Ciudad
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France
| | | | | | - Georges Tarris
- Department of Pathology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Laurent Martin
- Department of Pathology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Philippe Saas
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France.,Centre d'investigation clinique (CIC)-1431, INSERM, Besançon University Hospital, Etablissement Français du Sang (EFS), Besançon, France
| | - Sylvain Audia
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France.,Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France
| | - Bernard Bonnotte
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France.,Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, INSERM, Etablissement Français du Sang, Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EFS BFC), UMR1098, RIGHT Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, Dijon, France
| | - Maria C Cid
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CRB-CELLEX, Barcelona, Spain
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Farina N, Tomelleri A, Campochiaro C, Dagna L. Giant cell arteritis: Update on clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 107:17-26. [PMID: 36344353 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculitis affecting people older than 50 years. The last decades have shed new light on the clinical paradigm of this condition, expanding its spectrum beyond cranial vessel inflammation. GCA can be now considered a multifaceted vasculitic syndrome encompassing inflammation of cranial and extra-cranial arteries and girdles, isolated or combined. Such heterogeneity often leads to diagnostic delays and increases the likelihood of acute and chronic GCA-related damage. On the other hand, the approach to suspected GCA patients has been revolutionized by the introduction of vascular ultrasound which allows a rapid, cost-effective, and non-invasive GCA diagnosis. Likewise, the use of tocilizumab is now part of the therapeutic algorithm of GCA and ensures a satisfactory disease control even in steroid-refractory patients. Nonetheless, some aspects of GCA still need to be clarified, including the clinical correlation of different histological patterns, and the prevention of long-term vascular complications. This narrative review depicts the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of GCA most relevant in clinical practice, with a focus on clinical updates and novelties introduced over the last decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Farina
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Tomelleri
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
| | - Corrado Campochiaro
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Dagna
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Szekeres D, Al Othman B. Current developments in the diagnosis and treatment of giant cell arteritis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1066503. [PMID: 36582285 PMCID: PMC9792614 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1066503] [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: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis is the most common vasculitis in adults above 50 years old. The disease is characterized by granulomatous inflammation of medium and large arteries, particularly the temporal artery, and is associated acutely with headache, claudication, and visual disturbances. Diagnosis of the disease is often complicated by its protean presentation and lack of consistently reliable testing. The utility of color doppler ultrasound at the point-of-care and FDG-PET in longitudinal evaluation remain under continued investigation. Novel techniques for risk assessment with Halo scoring and stratification through axillary vessel ultrasound are becoming commonplace. Moreover, the recent introduction of the biologic tocilizumab marks a paradigm shift toward using glucocorticoid-sparing strategies as the primary treatment modality. Notwithstanding these developments, patients continue to have substantial rates of relapse and biologic agents have their own side effect profile. Trials are underway to answer questions about optimal diagnostic modality, regiment choice, and duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denes Szekeres
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Bayan Al Othman
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States,*Correspondence: Bayan Al Othman,
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32
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Buttgereit F, Palmowski A, Esen I, Brouwer E. Tocilizumab in Giant Cell Arteritis: Better Understanding the Benefits. Arthritis Rheumatol 2022; 75:489-492. [PMID: 36468520 DOI: 10.1002/art.42414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Buttgereit
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andriko Palmowski
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Berlin, Germany, Section for Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Research, The Parker Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark, and Division of Rheumatology, University of California San Francisco
| | - Idil Esen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Stamatis P, Turesson C, Michailidou D, Mohammad AJ. Pathogenesis of giant cell arteritis with focus on cellular populations. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1058600. [PMID: 36465919 PMCID: PMC9714577 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1058600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), the most common non-infectious vasculitis, mainly affects elderly individuals. The disease usually affects the aorta and its main supra-aortic branches causing both general symptoms of inflammation and specific ischemic symptoms because of the limited blood flow due to arterial structural changes in the inflamed arteries. The pathogenesis of the GCA is complex and includes a dysregulated immune response that affects both the innate and the adaptive immunity. During the last two decades several studies have investigated interactions among antigen-presenting cells and lymphocytes, which contribute to the formation of the inflammatory infiltrate in the affected arteries. Toll-like receptor signaling and interactions through the VEGF-Notch-Jagged1 pathway are emerging as crucial events of the aberrant inflammatory response, facilitating among others the migration of inflammatory cells to the inflamed arteries and their interactions with the local stromal milieu. The increased use of checkpoint inhibitors in cancer immunotherapy and their immune-related adverse events has fed interest in the role of checkpoint dysfunction in GCA, and recent studies suggest a dysregulated check point system which is unable to suppress the inflammation in the previously immune-privileged arteries, leading to vasculitis. The role of B-cells is currently reevaluated because of new reports of considerable numbers of plasma cells in inflamed arteries as well as the formation of artery tertiary lymphoid organs. There is emerging evidence on previously less studied cell populations, such as the neutrophils, CD8+ T-cells, T regulatory cells and tissue residing memory cells as well as for stromal cells which were previously considered as innocent bystanders. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence in the literature regarding the cell populations involved in the pathogenesis of GCA and especially in the context of an aged, immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavlos Stamatis
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Rheumatology, Sunderby Hospital, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Carl Turesson
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Despina Michailidou
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Aladdin J. Mohammad
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Rizzo C, La Barbera L, Miceli G, Tuttolomondo A, Guggino G. The innate face of Giant Cell Arteritis: Insight into cellular and molecular innate immunity pathways to unravel new possible biomarkers of disease. FRONTIERS IN MOLECULAR MEDICINE 2022; 2:933161. [PMID: 39086970 PMCID: PMC11285707 DOI: 10.3389/fmmed.2022.933161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an inflammatory chronic disease mainly occurring in elderly individuals. The pathogenesis of GCA is still far from being completely elucidated. However, in susceptible arteries, an aberrant immune system activation drives the occurrence of vascular remodeling which is mainly characterized by intimal hyperplasia and luminal obstruction. Vascular damage leads to ischemic manifestations involving extra-cranial branches of carotid arteries, mostly temporal arteries, and aorta. Classically, GCA was considered a pathological process resulting from the interaction between an unknown environmental trigger, such as an infectious agent, with local dendritic cells (DCs), activated CD4 T cells and effector macrophages. In the last years, the complexity of GCA has been underlined by robust evidence suggesting that several cell subsets belonging to the innate immunity can contribute to disease development and progression. Specifically, a role in driving tissue damage and adaptive immunity activation was described for dendritic cells (DCs), monocytes and macrophages, mast cells, neutrophils and wall components, such as endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). In this regard, molecular pathways related to cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, vasoactive molecules and reactive oxygen species may contribute to the inflammatory process underlying GCA. Altogether, innate cellular and molecular pathways may clarify many pathogenetic aspects of the disease, paving the way for the identification of new biomarkers and for the development of new treatment targets for GCA. This review aims to deeply dissect past and new evidence on the innate immunological disruption behind GCA providing a comprehensive description of disease development from the innate perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Rizzo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Rheumatology Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Lidia La Barbera
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Rheumatology Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Miceli
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Unit of Internal Medicine and Stroke Care, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonino Tuttolomondo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Unit of Internal Medicine and Stroke Care, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuliana Guggino
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Rheumatology Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Matsumoto K, Suzuki K, Yoshida H, Magi M, Kaneko Y, Takeuchi T. Longitudinal monitoring of circulating immune cell phenotypes in large vessel vasculitis. Autoimmun Rev 2022; 21:103160. [PMID: 35926769 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103160] [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: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK) are two types of primary large vessel vasculitis (LVV). LVV is an intractable, rare disease with a high relapse rate. Disease progression in asymptomatic patients is an important issue in the clinical management of LVV. Useful biomarkers associated with clinical phenotypes, disease activity, and prognosis may be present in peripheral blood. In this review, we focused on peripheral leukocyte counts, surface markers, functions, and gene expression in LVV patients. In particular, we explored longitudinal changes in circulating immune cell phenotypes during the active phase of the disease and during treatment. The numbers and phenotypes of leukocytes in the peripheral blood were different between LVV and healthy controls, GCA and TAK, LVV in active versus treatment phases, and LVV in treatment responders versus non-responders. Therefore, biomarkers obtained from peripheral blood immune cells may be useful for longitudinal monitoring of disease activity in LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kotaro Matsumoto
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Katsuya Suzuki
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Mayu Magi
- Chugai Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yuko Kaneko
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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36
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Macaluso F, Marvisi C, Castrignanò P, Pipitone N, Salvarani C. Comparing treatment options for large vessel vasculitis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:793-805. [PMID: 35714219 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2092098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK) are the major forms of large vessel vasculitis (LVV).Glucocorticoids represent the cornerstone of LVV treatment, however, relapses and recurrences frequently occur when they are tapered or stopped, determining a prolonged exposure to glucocorticoids and a subsequent increased risk of glucocorticoid-related side effects. Therefore, conventional and biologic immunosuppressive drugs have been proposed to obtain a glucocorticoid-sparing effect. AREAS COVERED We searched PubMed® using the keywords "giant cell arteritis/drug therapy" and "Takayasu Arteritis/drug therapy" OR "Takayasu Arteritis/surgery". This review focuses on the management of LVV, based on the current evidence while highlighting the differences in terms of therapeutic management of TAK and GCA. EXPERT OPINION Conventional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, such as methotrexate or azathioprine, are recommended in association to glucocorticoids for selected GCA and all TAK patients. Two randomized placebo-controlled trials recently demonstrated the efficacy of tocilizumab in reducing relapses and cumulative prednisone dosage in GCA patients with newly diagnosed or relapsing disease. Observational evidence and two small randomized controlled trials support the use of TNF-alpha inhibitors and tocilizumab as glucocorticoid-sparing agents in relapsing TAK, albeit high-quality evidence regarding the management of TAK is still lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Macaluso
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.,Department of Precision Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Università della Campania L Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Marvisi
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.,Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Paola Castrignanò
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.,Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Nicolò Pipitone
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.,Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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New Insights into the Pathogenesis of Giant Cell Arteritis: Mechanisms Involved in Maintaining Vascular Inflammation. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11102905. [PMID: 35629030 PMCID: PMC9143803 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The giant cell arteritis (GCA) pathophysiology is complex and multifactorial, involving a predisposing genetic background, the role of immune aging and the activation of vascular dendritic cells by an unknown trigger. Once activated, dendritic cells recruit CD4 T cells and induce their activation, proliferation and polarization into Th1 and Th17, which produce interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-17 (IL-17), respectively. IFN-γ triggers the production of chemokines by vascular smooth muscle cells, which leads to the recruitment of additional CD4 and CD8 T cells and also monocytes that differentiate into macrophages. Recent data have shown that IL-17, IFN-γ and GM-CSF induce the differentiation of macrophage subpopulations, which play a role in the destruction of the arterial wall, in neoangiogenesis or intimal hyperplasia. Under the influence of different mediators, mainly endothelin-1 and PDGF, vascular smooth muscle cells migrate to the intima, proliferate and change their phenotype to become myofibroblasts that further proliferate and produce extracellular matrix proteins, increasing the vascular stenosis. In addition, several defects in the immune regulatory mechanisms probably contribute to chronic vascular inflammation in GCA: a defect in the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, a quantitative and qualitative Treg deficiency, the implication of resident cells, the role of GM-CSF and IL-6, the implication of the NOTCH pathway and the role of mucosal‑associated invariant T cells and tissue‑resident memory T cells.
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Watanabe R, Hashimoto M. Perspectives of JAK Inhibitors for Large Vessel Vasculitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:881705. [PMID: 35432355 PMCID: PMC9005632 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.881705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasculitis is an inflammation of the blood vessels caused by autoimmunity and/or autoinflammation, and recent advances in research have led to a better understanding of its pathogenesis. Glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide have long been the standard of care. However, B-cell depletion therapy with rituximab has become available for treating antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV). More recently, avacopan, an inhibitor of the complement 5a receptor, was shown to have high efficacy in remission induction against AAV. Thus, treatment options for AAV have been expanded. In contrast, in large vessel vasculitis (LVV), including giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis, tocilizumab, an IL-6 receptor antagonist, was shown to be effective in suppressing relapse and has steroid-sparing effects. However, the relapse rate remains high, and other therapeutic options have long been awaited. In the last decade, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have emerged as therapeutic options for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Their efficacy has been proven in multiple studies; thus, JAK inhibitors are expected to be promising agents for treating other rheumatic diseases, including LVV. This mini-review briefly introduces the mechanism of action of JAK inhibitors and their efficacy in patients with RA. Then, the pathophysiology of LVV is updated, and a rationale for treating LVV with JAK inhibitors is provided with a brief introduction of our preliminary results using a mouse model. Finally, we discuss the newly raised safety concerns regarding JAK inhibitors and future perspectives for treating LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryu Watanabe
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Motomu Hashimoto
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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Robert M, Miossec P, Hot A. The Th17 Pathway in Vascular Inflammation: Culprit or Consort? Front Immunol 2022; 13:888763. [PMID: 35479069 PMCID: PMC9035791 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.888763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The involvement of IL-17A in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases has prompted the development of therapeutic strategies to block the Th17 pathway. Promising results came from their use in psoriasis and in ankylosing spondylitis. IL-17A acts on various cell types and has both local and systemic effects. Considering the premature mortality observed during chronic inflammatory diseases, IL-17A action on vascular cells was studied. Both in vitro and in vivo results suggest that this cytokine favors inflammation, coagulation and thrombosis and promotes the occurrence of cardiovascular events. These observations led to study the role of IL-17A in diseases characterized by vascular inflammation, namely allograft rejection and vasculitis. Increased circulating levels of IL-17A and histological staining reveal that the Th17 pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Vasculitis treatment faces challenges while the use of steroids has many side effects. Regarding results obtained in giant cell arteritis with IL-6 inhibitors, a cytokine involved in Th17 differentiation, the use of anti-IL-17 is a promising strategy. However, lessons from rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis must be learnt before targeting IL-17 in vasculitis, which may be culprit, consort or both of them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Robert
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, and Immunogenomics and Inflammation Research Unit, University of Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Lyon, France
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Lyon, France
- *Correspondence: Marie Robert,
| | - Pierre Miossec
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, and Immunogenomics and Inflammation Research Unit, University of Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Lyon, France
| | - Arnaud Hot
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Lyon, France
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Treatment of Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA). J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11071799. [PMID: 35407411 PMCID: PMC8999932 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11071799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most frequent primary large-vessel vasculitis in individuals older than 50. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are considered the cornerstone of treatment. GC therapy is usually tapered over months according to clinical symptoms and inflammatory marker levels. Considering the high rate of GC-related adverse events in these older individuals, immunosuppressive treatments and biologic agents have been proposed as add-on therapies. Methotrexate was considered an alternative option, but its clinical impact was limited. Other immunosuppressants failed to demonstrate a significant favourable benefit/risk ratio. The approval of tocilizumab, an anti-interleukin 6 (IL-6) receptor inhibitor brought significant improvement. Indeed, tocilizumab had a noticeable effect on cumulative GCs’ dose and relapse prevention. After the improvement in pathophysiological knowledge, other targeted therapies have been proposed, with anti-IL-12/23, anti-IL-17, anti-IL-1, anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4, Janus kinase inhibitors or anti-granulocyte/macrophage colony stimulating factor therapies. These therapies are currently under evaluation. Interestingly, mavrilimumab, ustekinumab and, to a lesser extent, abatacept have shown promising results in phase 2 randomised controlled trials. Despite this recent progress, the value, specific condition and optimal application of each treatment remain undecided. In this review, we discuss the scientific rationale for each treatment and the therapeutic strategy.
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