Impact of baseline C-reactive protein levels on the response to secukinumab in ankylosing spondylitis: 3-year pooled data from two phase III studies

The failure of biological treatment in axial spondyloarthritis is linked to the factors related to increased intestinal permeability and dysbiosis: prospective observational cohort study

BACKGROUND

A significant number of patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) do not respond to biological therapy. Therefore, we decided to investigate the specificity of this group of patients and, in particular, whether haptoglobin (Hp), its polymorphism and zonulin, in addition to other clinical features, are predictors of poor response to biological treatment.

METHODS

48 patients with axSpA who were unsuccessfully treated with standard drugs were converted to biological treatment, and from this time on, a 12-week follow-up was started to assess the failure of biological treatment (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) decrease < 2 points). Predictors of treatment failure were identified using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

21% of subjects had biological treatment failure. Patients who had a higher zonulin level, a history of frequent infections, were older, had inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), had a lower Hp level at the time of inclusion in biological therapy showed an increased risk of treatment failure.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study support the hypothesis that the effectiveness of biological treatment of axSpA is limited by changed microbiota and intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction, as an increased risk of biological treatment failure was observed in patients who were older, had higher zonulin level, IBD and repeated courses of antibiotics due to frequent infections. Therefore, starting biological treatment should be followed by reducing intestinal permeability and regulating the disturbed gut microbiome.

Management of Specific Clinical Profiles in Axial Spondyloarthritis: An Expert's Document Based on a Systematic Literature Review and Extended Delphi Process

INTRODUCTION

The management of specific clinical scenarios is not adequately addressed in national and international guidelines for axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Expert opinions could serve as a valuable complement to these documents.

METHODS

Seven expert rheumatologists identified controversial areas or gaps of current recommendations for the management of patients with axSpA. A systematic literature review (SLR) was performed to analyze the efficacy and safety of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, conventional synthetic, biologic and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs, b/tsDMARDs) in axSpA regarding controversial areas or gaps. In a nominal group meeting, the results of the SLR were discussed and a set of statements were proposed. A Delphi process inviting 150 rheumatologists was followed to define the final statements. Agreement was defined as if at least 70% of the participants voted ≥ 7 (from 1, totally disagree, to 10, totally agree).

RESULTS

Three overarching principles and 17 recommendations were generated. All reached agreement. According to them, axSpA care should be holistic and individualized, taking into account objective findings, comorbidities, and patients' opinions and preferences. Integrating imaging and clinical assessment with biomarker analysis could also help in decision-making. Connected to treatments, in refractory enthesitis, b/tsDMARDs are recommended. If active peripheral arthritis, csDMARD might be considered before b/tsDMARDs. The presence of significant structural damage, long disease duration, or HLA-B27-negative status do not contraindicate for the use of b/tsDMARDs.

CONCLUSIONS

These recommendations are intended to complement guidelines by helping health professionals address and manage specific groups of patients, particular clinical scenarios, and gaps in axSpA.

Korean treatment recommendations for patients with axial spondyloarthritis

We aimed to develop evidence-based recommendations for treating axial spondylarthritis (axSpA) in Korea. The development committee was constructed, key clinical questions were determined, and the evidence was searched through online databases including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, KoreaMed, and Kmbase. Systematic literature reviews were conducted, quality of evidence was determined, and draft recommendations were formulated according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluations methodology. Recommendations that reached 80% consensus among a voting panel were finalized. Three principles and 21 recommendations were determined. Recommendations 1 and 2 pertain to treatment strategies, regular disease status assessment, and rheumatologist-steered multidisciplinary management. Recommendations 3 and 4 strongly recommend patient education, exercise, and smoking cessation. Recommendations 5-12 address pharmacological treatment of active disease using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, sulfasalazine, biologics, and Janus kinase inhibitors. Recommendations 13-16 address treatment in stable disease. We suggest against spa and acupuncture as therapies (Recommendation 17). Recommendations 18 and 19 pertain to total hip arthroplasty and spinal surgery. Monitoring of comorbidities and drug toxicities are recommended (Recommendations 20 and 21). Recommendations for axSpA treatment in a Korean context were developed based on comprehensive clinical questions and evidence. These are intended to guide best practice in the treatment of axSpA.

Advances in pharmacotherapies for axial spondyloarthritis

INTRODUCTION

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) refers to an inflammatory rheumatic disease that mainly affects the axial skeleton and leads to progressive radiographic changes of the sacroiliac joints and spine. axSpA is currently subdivided into the radiographic (r-axSpA) and non-radiographic (nr-axSpA) form. Both forms are associated with musculoskeletal pain, restriction of spinal mobility, specific extra-musculoskeletal manifestations, and overall, altered quality of life. The therapeutic management of axSpA is currently well standardized.

AREAS COVERED

We reviewed available literature (by using PubMed search) on non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment options that may be used in axSpA, including r-axSpA and nr-axSpA, as well as the role of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), biological agents including TNFalpha (TNFi) and IL-17 (IL-17i) inhibitors. New treatment options such as Janus kinase inhibitors are also reviewed.

EXPERT OPINION

NSAIDs remain the mainstay of initial therapy, and subsequently, biological agents (TNFi and IL-17i) may be envisaged. Four TNFi are licensed for the treatment of both r-axSpA and nr-axSpA, while IL-17i are approved in each indication. The choice between a TNFi and an IL-17i is mainly guided by the presence of extra-articular manifestations. JAKi were more recently introduced for the treatment of r-axSpA, but their use is restricted to specific patients with a safe cardiovascular profile.

Korean treatment recommendations for patients with axial spondyloarthritis

We aimed to develop evidence-based recommendations for treating axial spondylarthritis (axSpA) in Korea. The development committee was constructed, key clinical questions were determined, and the evidence was searched through online databases including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, KoreaMed, and KMbase. Systematic literature reviews were conducted, quality of evidence was determined, and draft recommendations were formulated according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluations methodology. Recommendations that reached 80% consensus among a voting panel were finalized. Three principles and 21 recommendations were determined. Recommendations 1 and 2 pertain to treatment strategies, regular disease status assessment, and rheumatologist-steered multidisciplinary management. Recommendations 3 and 4 strongly recommend patient education, exercise, and smoking cessation. Recommendations 5~12 address pharmacological treatment of active disease using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, sulfasalazine, biologics, and Janus kinase inhibitors. Recommendations 13~16 address treatment in stable disease. We suggest against spa and acupuncture as therapies (Recommendation 17). Recommendations 18 and 19 pertain to total hip arthroplasty and spinal surgery. Monitoring of comorbidities and drug toxicities are recommended (Recommendations 20 and 21). Recommendations for axSpA treatment in a Korean context were developed based on comprehensive clinical questions and evidence. These are intended to guide best practice in the treatment of axSpA.

Factors associated with the retention of secukinumab in patients with axial spondyloarthritis in real-world practice: results from a retrospective study (FORSYA)

BACKGROUND

Secukinumab efficacy and retention data are emerging in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) in real-world settings. However, limited data are available on the predictive factors that affect the retention rate. The key objective was to determine whether objective signs of inflammation (OSI) were predictive of secukinumab retention at 1 year.

METHODS

FORSYA is a French, multicentric, non-interventional, retrospective study in adult axSpA patients who received secukinumab treatment between its launch (11 August 2016) and 31 August 2018. The time to secukinumab discontinuation and retention were analysed using a Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis. OSI was predefined by at least one of the criteria: C reactive protein ≥5 mg/L or erythrocyte sedimentation rate ≥28 mm/hour at secukinumab initiation or MRI inflammation at the sacroiliac or spine level.

RESULTS

In total, 906 patients from 48 centres were included in the analysis, 42.2% of whom were men, with a mean age of 46.2±11.7 years and a mean disease duration of 9.3±9.1 years. The 1-year KM retention rate (95% CI) for secukinumab was 59% (55%-62%), whereas for patients with and without OSI, it was 58% (54%-62%) and 63% (53%-73%), respectively. In multivariate analysis, lack of prior exposure to tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi), absence of OSI and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) were associated with a better retention of secukinumab at 1 year.

CONCLUSION

Following its approval in France, ~59% of axSpA patients retained secukinumab in daily practice, at 1 year. Prior exposure to TNFi, OSI and IBD were identified as risk factors for secukinumab discontinuation.

Role of Th17 and IL-17 Cytokines on Inflammatory and Auto-immune Diseases

BACKGROUND

The IL-17 (interleukin 17) family consists of six structurally related pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely IL-17A to IL-17F. These cytokines have garnered significant scientific interest due to their pivotal role in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Notably, a specific subset of T-cells expresses IL-17 family members, highlighting their importance in immune responses against microbial infections.

INTRODUCTION

IL-17 cytokines play a critical role in host defense mechanisms by inducing cytokines and chemokines, recruiting neutrophils, modifying T-cell differentiation, and stimulating the production of antimicrobial proteins. Maintaining an appropriate balance of IL-17 is vital for overall health. However, dysregulated production of IL-17A and other members can lead to the pathogenesis of numerous inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

METHOD

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the IL-17 family and its involvement in several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Relevant literature and research studies were analyzed to compile the data presented in this review.

RESULTS

IL-17 cytokines, particularly IL-17A, have been implicated in the development of various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, systemic lupus erythematosus, pyoderma gangrenosum, autoimmune hepatic disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, and graft-versus-host disease. Understanding the role of IL-17 in these diseases is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies.

CONCLUSION

The significant involvement of IL-17 cytokines in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases underscores their potential as therapeutic targets. Current treatments utilizing antibodies against IL-17 cytokines and IL-17RA receptors have shown promise in managing these conditions. This review consolidates the understanding of IL-17 family members and their roles, providing valuable insights for the development of novel immunomodulators to effectively treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

Normal C-reactive protein in active psoriatic arthritis: results from real-world clinical practice

Background:

The value of normal C-reactive protein (CRP) in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is debatable.

Objectives:

To test the hypothesis that CRP is frequently normal in contemporary real-world PsA patients, despite active disease.

Design:

In this cross-sectional study, patients were divided into two groups: CRP ⩽ 0.5 mg/dl (normal) and CRP > 0.5 mg/dl (increased). Having as dependent variable the CRP status, these groups were compared for disease-related features, including composite disease activity indices [clinical Disease Activity in PSoriatic Arthritis (cDAPSA) and minimal disease activity (MDA)] and patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Agreement between CRP status and cDAPSA/MDA scores was calculated (Cohen’s kappa).

Methods:

Data from consecutive PsA patients attending two outpatient rheumatology clinics (January 2019–June 2021) were analysed.

Results:

From 128 patients enrolled (51.6% females; mean ± standard deviation age: 53.4 ± 11.7 years; 23.4%, 48.4% and 64.1% treated with glucocorticoids, conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) and biologic DMARDs, respectively), two-thirds (66.4%, n = 85) had normal CRP values. CRP status was not associated with any of the disease-related parameters and PROs, but only with ESR [odds ratio: 1.04 (95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.06), p = 0.005]. Among patients with normal CRP, 45.9% (39/85) were on non-MDA state, while 21.2% (18/85) had cDAPSA-moderate and 5.9% (5/85) had cDAPSA-high disease activities. Conversely, 54.2% (39/72) of patients on non-MDA state and 52.3% (23/44) of those with cDAPSA-moderate or cDAPSA-high disease activity had normal CRP values. Cohen’s kappa between normal CRP and MDA, cDAPSA-remission, and cDAPSA-remission/low disease activity was –0.26, –0.21 and –0.22, respectively, displaying total disagreement.

Conclusion:

Normal CRP in PsA should not be used as surrogate marker of remission or low/MDA, therefore needs to be interpreted with caution in clinical decision-making.

Evidence for the Use of Secukinumab in Patients with Radiographic and Non-radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis in the Last 5 Years

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is an inflammatory rheumatic disorder that causes chronic pain, primarily in the spine and sacroiliac joints. It is characterized by the presence of type 1 major histocompatibility complex HLA-B27 genetic marker, arthritis in peripheral joints, enthesitis and/or dactylitis and extra-articular manifestations. Current guidelines recommend biological therapy when first-line therapy is not sufficiently effective. The finding that the interleukin (IL)-17 axis is vital for the pathogenesis of axSpA propelled the development of secukinumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody directed against IL-17A. The present review provides evidence on the efficacy and safety of secukinumab in the treatment of radiographic and non-radiographic axSpA from nine randomized controlled phase III trials, as well as evidence from real-world observational analyses. The primary endpoint in six clinical trials was the proportion of patients meeting the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society criteria for either 20% or 40% improvement (ASAS20, ASAS40) at week 16. Significantly more patients achieved the primary endpoint with secukinumab compared with placebo in all the studies except MEASURE 4. Both clinical trials and real-world studies showed significant improvements in the secondary endpoints of disease activity, quality of life, and pain and fatigue relative to placebo. The benefits of secukinumab were generally sustained during longer-term (up to 5 years) treatment. Overall, secukinumab was well tolerated with a low frequency of adverse events and treatment persistence was high in the real-world setting. Although indirect comparisons suggest that secukinumab and adalimumab have comparable efficacy and safety, they are being directly compared in the ongoing SURPASS study. During the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, it is advisable to continue biological therapy in patients who do not have severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) infection, but interrupt treatment during an infection, reinitiating once the patient has recovered from the infection. In conclusion, secukinumab is a largely safe and effective treatment for radiographic and non-radiographic axSpA.

Associations of IL-18 with Altered Cardiovascular Risk Profile in Psoriatic Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis

Objective: To investigate the associations of IL-18 serum levels with serum lipids, cardiovascular risk, and disease activity in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) with axial (axPsA) and peripheral (perPsA) joint involvement. Methods: 155 adult patients (PsA 61/AS 94) were enrolled in the study. Standard disease activity indices, BASDAI, and ASDAS, were calculated for AS and PsA and DAPSA for PsA. Sera from peripheral blood samples were obtained after night fasting. Serum concentrations of cytokines (IL-18, IL-17) were measured by ELISA, while lipid profile with total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density cholesterol-(LDL), high-density cholesterol (HDL), and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations were determined using routine procedures. The atherogenic index was calculated using the standard formula AI = TC/HDL. Results: Patients with PsA and peripheral joint involvement (perPsA) had significantly higher IL-18 serum levels than axial PsA and AS patients (medians 160 vs. 116 vs. 80 pg/mL). In patients with PsA and in the subgroup with PsA+ ischemic heart disease (IHD), IL-18 positively correlated with atherogenic index (AI) (rho = 0.46 and rho = 0.67, respectively) and TG serum concentrations (rho = 0.4 and rho = 0.675), while negatively with HDL levels (rho = −0.37 and rho = −0.608). In PsA + IHD subgroup IL-18 serum levels correlated positively also with disease activity (DAPSA) (rho = 0.613). Importantly, in patients with perPsA, characterized by the highest IL-18 serum levels, cardiovascular risk, and frequency of both hypertriglyceridemia and IHD, positive correlations between IL-18 and IL-17 (rho = 0.47, p = 0.002), TG (rho = 0.45 p = 0.01) levels and AI (rho = 0.63 p = 0.021) were found. Whereas linear regression models revealed that IL-17, TG concentrations and the tender joint count had an impact on IL-18 Conclusions: We confirmed that patients with perPsA are characterized by a more pronounced proinflammatory and proatherogenic cardiovascular risk profile than patients with axPsA and AS. Importantly our study indicates that in PsA, but not in AS, elevated serum concentration of IL-18 is associated with higher disease activity and proatherogenic lipid profile, leading to a higher cardiovascular risk. Thus, our results point out IL-18 as a critical contributor in these pathological processes and possible therapeutic targets.

Secukinumab in non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: subgroup analysis based on key baseline characteristics from a randomized phase III study, PREVENT

BACKGROUND

To investigate the efficacy of secukinumab in patients with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) grouped by disease activity as assessed by C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scores, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 status, and sex.

METHODS

The phase III PREVENT study randomized (1:1:1) 555 patients to receive subcutaneous secukinumab 150 mg with (LD) or without (NL) loading dose or placebo weekly, followed by every 4 weeks starting at week 4. Here, we report the results of a post hoc analysis reporting the efficacy outcomes (pooled secukinumab) to 16 weeks by CRP, MRI, HLA-B27, and sex.

RESULTS

Efficacy differences between the secukinumab and the placebo groups were highest in the CRP+, MRI+, HLA-B27+, and male subgroups, particularly for Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score-CRP inactive disease and Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) partial remission outcomes. ASAS40 response rates in the CRP+/MRI+ subgroup was 52.3% (secukinumab) versus 21.8% (placebo; P < 0.0001) at week 16. ASAS40 response rates (secukinumab versus placebo) were 43.9% versus 32.6% in HLA-B27+, 32.7% versus 16.4% in HLA-B27- subgroups, 51.2% versus 30.8% in male, and 31.7% versus 25.3% in female patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Secukinumab improved the signs and symptoms of nr-axSpA across patients grouped by CRP (+/-) and/or MRI (+/-) status, HLA-B27 (+/-) status, and sex. The highest treatment differences between secukinumab and placebo were observed in patients with both elevated CRP and evidence of sacroiliitis on MRI. Treatment difference was minimal between HLA-B27 (+) and (-) subgroups. Male patients had higher relative responses than female patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT02696031 . Registered on 02 March 2016.

The Effect of Etanercept in Nonradiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis by Stratified C-Reactive Protein Levels

Objective

Biological agents have shown markedly different response rates by baseline C‐reactive protein (CRP). Here, we determine the response of patients with nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr‐axSpA) to etanercept stratified by their baseline CRP level.

Methods

The EMBARK trial was a phase 3, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of etanercept in nr‐axSpA. The primary endpoint was Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS) 40 at Week 12, the conclusion of the double‐blind phase. It recruited patients who met the ASAS criteria for axial spondyloarthritis, and sacroiliac joint magnetic resonance scans were completed on all patients. In this post hoc analysis, we analyzed outcomes by baseline C‐reactive protein (CRP) level of less than 5 mg/L, 5 mg/L to 10 mg/L, and greater than 10 mg/L. The clinical trial outcome data were accessed via the Vivli platform.

Results

In the less than 5 mg/L CRP group treated with etanercept, the ASAS20 response, ASAS40 response, Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score‐CRP (ASDAS‐CRP), and ASDAS‐ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) outcomes were 49% (P = 0.84), 26% (P = 0.14), 42% (P = 0.002), and 44% (P = 0.006), respectively. In the 5 to 10 mg/L CRP group treated with etanercept, the ASAS20 response, ASAS40 response, ASDAS‐CRP, and ASDAS‐ESR outcomes were 56% (P = 0.99), 31% (P = 0.40), 56% (P = 0.16), and 50% (P = 0.11), respectively. In the greater than10 mg/L CRP group treated with etanercept, the ASAS20 response, ASAS40 response, ASDAS‐CRP, and ASDAS‐ESR outcomes were 74% (P = 0.02), 68% (P = 0.003), 82% (P = 0.005), and 50% (P = 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

Although there are reduced ASAS20 and ASAS40 response rates in the groups with baseline CRP less than 10 mg/L, there remain clinically relevant responses when the composite outcome measures ASDAS‐CRP or ASDAS‐ESR were used, and this should be considered when deciding on thresholds for reimbursement.

Factors affecting drug survival of an alternative TNF inhibitor and secukinumab in patients with ankylosing spondylitis switching from the first TNF inhibitor

BACKGROUND

To investigate factors associated with drug survival of an alternative tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) and secukinumab (SEC) after switching from the first TNFi in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

METHODS

We included a total of 78 patients with AS who switched to an alternative TNFi (n = 56) or SEC (n = 22) from the first TNFi. Patient characteristics at the time of switching and drug discontinuation rate were compared between the two groups. Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate factors associated with the risk of discontinuing the alternative TNFi and SEC.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients with syndesmophytes was numerically lower (28.6% versus 45.5%, p = 0.155) and the C-reactive protein (CRP) level was numerically higher [3.8 (1.0-15.4) mg/L versus 1.1 (0.5-3.5) mg/L, p = 0.060] in patients who received an alternative TNFi. The drug discontinuation rate (alternative TNFi: 35.7% versus SEC: 36.4%, p = 0.957) and reasons for discontinuation were similar (primary failure, p = 0.342; secondary failure, p > 0.999; and adverse events, p = 0.670) between the two groups. A higher CRP level at switching was associated with a lower risk (adjusted HR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.87-0.99, p = 0.022) of discontinuing the alternative TNFi, and primary failure of the first TNFi was associated with a higher risk [adjusted HR (HR) = 5.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.91-14.11, p = 0.001]. Current smokers (adjusted HR = 5.77, 95% CI = 1.20-27.74, p = 0.029) and the presence of syndesmophytes (adjusted HR = 7.49, 95% CI = 1.39-40.23, p = 0.019) were associated with a higher risk of discontinuing SEC.

CONCLUSION

When switching the drug from the first TNFi in patients with AS, an alternative TNFi could be preferable in patients with higher CRP levels or syndesmophytes, or current smokers, whereas SEC could be a better choice in patients who presented primary failure of the first TNFi in terms of drug survival.

Interleukin-17 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) has been applied in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) for many years but still with an unmed need due to inefficacy or intolerance. Current treatment guideline recommended the use of IL-17 inhibitors over a second TNFi in patients with primary nonresponse to the first TNFi. We herein review the present available IL-17 inhibitors including secukinumab (SEC), ixekizumab (IXE), brodalumab and bimekizumab (BKZ) in clinical trials of AS. Therapeutic response and safe profile have been discussed in detail for each drug. Overall, IL-17 inhibitors were proved to be alternatives for biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in AS, which might be safer for tuberculosis while candida infection should be monitored in long term treatment.

Impact of Secukinumab on Patient-Reported Outcomes in the Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis: Current Perspectives

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic rheumatic disease involving inflammation of the joints and spine, which carries a substantial, life-long burden for the patient. Secukinumab is a fully human anti-interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody, approved in the USA and EU for the treatment of AS. In this narrative review, we searched PubMed with the aim of consolidating the recent literature regarding the impact of secukinumab on patient-reported outcomes in patients with AS. A large clinical trial program has demonstrated the efficacy of secukinumab in relieving the signs and symptoms of AS. Most importantly from a patient perspective, secukinumab has produced improvements in a range of patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including pain, fatigue, quality of life and work productivity, as well as composite measures including patient-reported elements, such as the Bath indices and Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) response criteria. Benefits to patients were rapid, and sustained in the long term (up to 5 years). The positive effect of secukinumab was seen regardless of whether patients had previously been treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapies. Greater improvements in PROs were associated with patients being anti-TNF-naïve, of a younger age, with shorter disease duration and higher objective measures of inflammation at baseline. The available real-world evidence suggests that the effects of secukinumab on PROs in clinical practice are consistent with those seen in clinical trials, and evidence in a real-world setting continues to be collected.

Aptamers for Proteins Associated with Rheumatic Diseases: Progress, Challenges, and Prospects of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications

Nucleic acid aptamers capable of affine and specific binding to their molecular targets have now established themselves as a very promising alternative to monoclonal antibodies for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Although the main focus in aptamers’ research and development for biomedicine is made on cardiovascular, infectious, and malignant diseases, the use of aptamers as therapeutic or diagnostic tools in the context of rheumatic diseases is no less important. In this review, we consider the main features of aptamers that make them valuable molecular tools for rheumatologists, and summarize the studies on the selection and application of aptamers for protein biomarkers associated with rheumatic diseases. We discuss the progress in the development of aptamer-based diagnostic assays and targeted therapeutics for rheumatic disorders, future prospects in the field, and issues that have yet to be addressed.

The effect of secukinumab treatment on hematological parameters in ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

Secukinumab, a new treatment agent, selectively neutralizes interleukin (IL)-17A. It is used in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis (AS), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and psoriasis. It is known that the agents used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases have effects on hematological parameters. In this study, we aimed to determine whether hematological parameters are affected in secukinumab therapy in patients with AS and PsA.

METHODS

Thirty-six patients on secukinumab treatment were included in the study by scanning the database of our hospital. Data on patients' age, gender, complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), uric acid, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, creatinine values, and additional drug treatments were recorded from our database. The 0- and 6-month values of patients were analyzed.

RESULTS

Sixteen males (44.4%) and 20 females (55.6%) were included in our study. The average age was calculated to be 39.8±8.9 years. Of these, 30 patients receiving secukinumab treatment were diagnosed with AS, and 6 patients were diagnosed with PsA. Twenty-three patients (63.9%) were continued with secukinumab treatment at the 6th month. When CBC, glucose, urea, creatine, AST, ALT, ESR, CRP, and uric acid values of the patients at 0 and 6 months were compared, there was no significant difference.

CONCLUSION

In our study, no significant difference was found between 0 and 6 months in terms of CBC, AST, ALT, urea, creatinine, uric acid, glucose, CRP, and ESR levels in patients receiving secukinumab. However, an increase in hemoglobin values was observed in patients who continued the treatment. These results may suggest that secukinumab treatment has no negative effects on hematological parameters.

Treatment of Axial Spondyloarthritis: What Does the Future Hold?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide a summary of the recent and expected developments related to the treatment of axial spondyloarthritis.

RECENT FINDINGS

An increasing number of interleukin-17 blocking agents show efficacy in axial spondyloarthritis including both non-radiographic and radiographic forms. Janus kinase inhibitors showed promising results in phase II studies in radiographic axial spondyloarthritis and have, therefore, a potential to become a therapeutic option in this indication in the future. Inhibition of structural damage progression in axial spondyloarthritis seems to be possible in the case of effective and early anti-inflammatory treatment, although there are still open questions related to particular drug classes. Despite major advances in the field and growing therapeutic options, there are still many open questions related to the optimized treatment strategies and to the individual choice of a drug in axial spondyloarthritis.

[Current treatment of axial spondylarthritis : Clinical efficacy]

Drug treatment in patients with axial spondylarthritis (axSpA) aims to modify symptoms and complaints and currently includes the substance groups of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and biologicals (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, bDMARDS). Treatment with NSAIDs is the first line treatment according to international and national recommendations. Patients with persisting high disease activity despite continuous standard treatment with NSAIDs, should be treated with biologicals. In Germany treatment with tumor necosis factor (TNF) inhibitors or interleukin 17 inhibitor (secukinumab) are currently approved for treating patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Treatment of patients with non-radiographic axSpA (nr-axSpA) is restricted to TNF inhibitors (except infliximab) in Germany. The efficacy and safety are documented for both substance groups; however, due to the longer time since approval longitudinal data for TNF inhibitors are more robust and the data contain information about switching within a substance group. Although overall retention rates of TNF inhibitors are similar despite the difference in formation of antidrug antibodies, data from cohorts provide information about long-term loss of efficacy, switching and also discontinuation strategies. In the meantime, various biosimilars have been approved for infliximab, etanercept and adalimumab. Conventional basic treatment (csDMARDs) and in particular intra-articular administration of glucocorticoids can only be prescribed for axSpA patients with peripheral arthritis.

Secukinumab: A Review in Ankylosing Spondylitis

Secukinumab (Cosentyx^®), a first-in-class fully human monoclonal antibody against interleukin-17A, is approved in several countries, including the USA and those of the EU, for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Subcutaneous secukinumab significantly improved the clinical signs and symptoms of AS versus placebo in three of four phase III trials. The benefits of secukinumab were generally seen regardless of whether patients had or had not received previous tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor therapy, and were sustained during longer-term (up to 5 years) treatment. Secukinumab was also associated with improvements in spinal mobility, physical function, health-related quality of life and work productivity in some of the trials. In MEASURE 1, secukinumab reduced inflammation in the sacroiliac joint, and slowed radiographic progression. Secukinumab was generally well tolerated during up to 5 years’ treatment; the most commonly reported adverse event was nasopharyngitis. In the minority of patients who developed anti-drug antibodies (ADAs), ADAs did not decrease efficacy or increase adverse events. In conclusion, secukinumab is an effective therapy for TNF inhibitor-naive patients with active AS, and provides a useful treatment option for patients who have an inadequate response to or are intolerant of TNF inhibitors.

Pharmacological management of axial spondyloarthritis in adults

Introduction: Spondyloarthritis (SpA) refers to a group of disorders sharing common clinical, genetic and imaging characteristics. Axial (ax) SpA corresponds to a subgroup that mainly affects the axial skeleton, leading to inflammatory back pain and progressive radiographic changes of the sacroiliac joints and the spine. axSpA are currently subdivided into two forms, namely the radiographic and nonradiographic form, and are associated with musculoskeletal pain, restriction of spinal mobility, specific extra-articular features and overall, altered quality of life. The therapeutic management of axSpA has considerably progressed and is now well standardized. Areas covered: Herein, the author reviews the pharmacological treatments that may be used in axSpA, including radiographic and nonradiographic forms in addition to the role of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), TNF alpha (TNFi), and IL-17A (IL-17Ai) inhibitors. Expert opinion: NSAIDs remain the mainstay of initial therapy and biological agents may be then envisaged. TNFi and IL-17Ai may be used in axSpA, but physicians have more experience with TNFi. Only TNFi are licensed for the treatment of nonradiographic axSpA. IL-17Ai may be used as first or second line biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) and further results are needed to better define their position in the therapeutic management of axSpA.

IL-17 inhibition in axial spondyloarthritis: current and future perspectives

INTRODUCTION

Interleukin (IL)-17 is a proinflammatory cytokine considered to play a significant role in the immunopathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS)/axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) as well as of other spondyloarthritides. There is a number of substances targeting IL-17, which are at different stages of development in the axSpA indication.

AREAS COVERED

This review summarizes the current evidence on the role of IL-17 in the pathophysiology of axSpA and provided a comprehensive review of clinical and radiographic outcomes as well as of safety data from studies with IL-17A inhibitors secukinumab and ixekizumab. Ongoing studies on other IL-17 inhibitors (bimekizumab, brodalumab and BCD-085) that are being developed are also summarized.

EXPERT OPINION

The development of the IL-17 inhibitors has expanded AS treatment with effective options and confirmed the pathophysiological role of IL-17 in axSpA. IL-17 inhibition showed sufficient efficacy against signs and symptoms of the disease even after the failure of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, being at the same time reasonably safe.