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Wang M, Yang J, Fang X, Lin W, Yang Y. Membranous nephropathy: pathogenesis and treatments. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e614. [PMID: 38948114 PMCID: PMC11214595 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN), an autoimmune disease, can manifest at any age and is among the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults. In 80% of cases, the specific etiology of MN remains unknown, while the remaining cases are linked to drug use or underlying conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus, hepatitis B virus, or malignancy. Although about one-third of patients may achieve spontaneous complete or partial remission with conservative management, another third face an elevated risk of disease progression, potentially leading to end-stage renal disease within 10 years. The identification of phospholipase A2 receptor as the primary target antigen in MN has brought about a significant shift in disease management and monitoring. This review explores recent advancements in the pathophysiology of MN, encompassing pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and prognosis, with a focus on emerging developments in pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies aimed at halting disease progression. By synthesizing the latest research findings and clinical insights, this review seeks to contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance our understanding and management of this challenging autoimmune disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqiong Wang
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| | - Jingjuan Yang
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| | - Weiqiang Lin
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
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Ruggenenti P, Reinhard L, Ruggiero B, Perna A, Perico L, Peracchi T, Fidone D, Gennarini A, Benigni A, Cortinovis M, Hoxha E, Remuzzi G. Anti-Phospholipase A2 Receptor 1 and Anti-Cysteine Rich Antibodies, Domain Recognition and Rituximab Efficacy in Membranous Nephropathy: A Prospective Cohort Study. Am J Kidney Dis 2024; 83:588-600.e1. [PMID: 38151224 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2023.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE Proteinuria and anti-phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (anti-PLA2R1) antibody titers are associated with primary membranous nephropathy (MN) outcomes. We evaluated the association of antibodies against the cysteine-rich (CysR) and C-type lectin 1, 7, and 8 (CTLD1, CTLD7, and CTLD8) domains of PLA2R1 with MN outcomes. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS One-hundred-thirteen consecutive, consenting patients referred to the Nephology Unit of the Azienda-Socio-Sanitaria-Territoriale (ASST) Papa Giovanni XXIII (Bergamo, Italy) with PLA2R1-related, biopsy-proven MN whose persistent nephrotic syndrome (NS) was managed conservatively for>6 months and were monitored with serial evaluations of proteinuria, autoantibodies (by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), and clinical outcomes. EXPOSURE Rituximab. OUTCOME Complete (proteinuria<0.3g/24h) or partial (proteinuria≥0.3g/24h and<3.0g/24h with>50% reduction vs basal) NS remission. ANALYTICAL APPROACH Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses. RESULTS All patients had anti-CysR antibodies; 62 (54.9%) were multidomain recognizers. Anti-PLA2R1 and anti-CysR antibody titers were strongly correlated at baseline (P<0.001, r=0.934), 6 months (P<0.001, r=0.964), and 12 months (P<0.001, r=0.944). During a median follow-up of 37.1 (IQR, 20.3-56.9) months, 71 patients (62.8%) achieved either complete or partial remission of their NS. Lower baseline anti-PLA2R1 (HR, 0.997 [95% CI, 0.996-0.999], P=0.002) and anti-CysR [HR, 0.996 [95% CI, 0.993-0.998], P=0.001) titers were associated with a higher probability of remission, along with female sex, lower proteinuria, and lower serum creatinine levels (P<0.05 for all comparisons). Anti-CTLD antibodies were not associated with outcomes. At 6 and 12 months, compared to baseline, anti-PLA2R1 and anti-CysR antibody titers decreased more in patients progressing to partial or complete remission than in those without remission (P<0.05 for all comparisons). LIMITATIONS Observational design. CONCLUSIONS In PLA2R1-related MN, anti-PLA2R1 and anti-CysR antibodies similarly predict rituximab efficacy independent of PLA2R1 domain recognition. The choice between these tests should be dictated by feasibility and costs. Evaluating anti-CTLD antibodies appears unnecessary. PLAIN-LANGUAGE SUMMARY Primary membranous nephropathy (MN), a leading cause of nephrotic syndrome (NS) in adults, is an autoimmune disease caused by autoantibodies binding to the podocyte antigen phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R1). We assessed whether the effects of anti-CD20 cytolytic therapy with the monoclonal antibody rituximab are associated with detection rates and levels of anti-PLA2R1 antibodies and antibodies against PLA2R1 domains such as cysteine-rich (CysR), and C-type lectin 1, 7, and 8 (CTLD1, 7, and 8), in patients with PLA2R1-related MN and persistent NS. The probability of rituximab-induced complete or partial NS remission was associated with baseline anti-PLA2R1 and anti-CysR antibody titers, but not with anti-CTLD1, 7 and 8 antibodies or multidomain recognition. Integrated evaluation of anti-PLA2R1 or anti-CysR antibodies with proteinuria and kidney function may play a role in monitoring the effects of rituximab in patients with PLA2R1-related NS and MN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Ruggenenti
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy; Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Linda Reinhard
- 3III, Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg, Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Ruggiero
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Annalisa Perna
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Luca Perico
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Tobia Peracchi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Diego Fidone
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Alessia Gennarini
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Ariela Benigni
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Monica Cortinovis
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Elion Hoxha
- 3III, Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg, Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Giuseppe Remuzzi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy.
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Pouransiri Z, Assadi F, Mohkam M, Hooman N, Rostami Z, Mazaheri M, Azarfar A, Sharbaf FG. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Rituximab-Associated Infections Among Children and Adolescents With Glomerular Disease: Focus on the Risk of Infections. J Pediatr Pharmacol Ther 2023; 28:308-315. [PMID: 37795285 PMCID: PMC10547046 DOI: 10.5863/1551-6776-28.4.308] [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: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to explore rituximab (RTX) associated infectious complications in children with glomerular disease. METHODS We performed an electronic search of PubMed, International Scientific Information (ISI), Scopus, and EMBASE between January 2010 and July 2021. Infection rates and total drug-related adverse events were the outcomes. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated by using the I2 statistic. When there was statistical evidence of heterogeneity (I2 > 50%, p > 0.1), a random-effect model was adopted. Data analysis was performed with Stata17.0 software. RESULTS A total of 7 studies with 668 patients (136 with lupus nephritis [LN] and 532 with nephrotic syndrome were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled risk ratio showed that the administration of RTX was significantly associated with lower risk of infectious complications in patients with LN and nephrotic syndrome (0.72 [95% CI 0.58, 0.85]) when compared with population data of patients without glomerular disease (p = 0.2). There was no significant difference between the LN and nephrotic syndrome groups in terms of total serious adverse events or the occurrence of infections. There was significant heterogeneity among the reported studies (Q = 42.39, p < 0.001, I2 = 81%). CONCLUSION Administration of RTX in children with glomerular disease is associated with a lower rate of infections when compared with population data of patients without LN or nephrotic syndrome. Additional high-quality randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are needed to identify the long-term potential complications. Trial registration PROPERO ID: CRD42021274869 (https://www.crd.york.ac/prospero/display_record.php?).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhara Pouransiri
- Pediatric Nephrology Research Center (ZP, MaM), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farahnak Assadi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology (FA), Rush University of Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Masoumeh Mohkam
- Pediatric Nephrology Research Center (MM), Shahid Beheshi University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nakysa Hooman
- Aliasghar Clinical Research Development Center NH), Aliasghar Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Rostami
- Education Development Center (ZR), Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mojgan Mazaheri
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nephrology (MoM), Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Anoush Azarfar
- Kidney Transplantation Complications Research Center (AA), Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, and
| | - Fatemeh Ghane Sharbaf
- Kidney Transplantation Complications Research Center (AA, FGS), Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Liu Y, Zhang S, Hu R, Li C, Chen G, Shi X, Liu Y, Zheng K, Li H, Wen Y, Li X, Li X, Xia P, Qin Y. The Safety and Efficacy of Rituximab-Based Regimen in Atypical Membranous Nephropathy: A Single Center Retrospective Cohort Study. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:1983-1993. [PMID: 37251282 PMCID: PMC10224685 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s410169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose There are increasing reports of atypical membranous nephropathy (AMN) cases with similar pathological characteristics to secondary membranous nephropathy (SMN) without definite underlying causes. Although rituximab has become a first-line option in treating idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN), the efficacy and safety of rituximab-based regimen for AMN is not clear. Patients and Methods This is a retrospective, single-center study. AMN patients who received rituximab-based therapy were included. IMN patients treated with rituximab during the same period were selected as the control group matched by gender, sex, baseline urinary protein and albumin levels. Baseline data and follow-up data were collected. Results A total of 20 AMN patients and 40 IMN patients were included. The baseline levels of urinary protein were comparable between the two groups [6.77 (IQR 3.34, 11.49) g/24 h vs 6.47 (IQR 3.4, 10.76) g/24 h, P=0.944]. The baseline levels of serum albumin were 26.15±6.71 g/L and 26.8±5.54 g/L (P=0.689) respectively. The cumulative remission rate for rituximab-based treatment at the 12th month was lower in AMN group than IMN group [13 (65%) vs 36 (90%), P=0.045]. In AMN group, non-responders showed a higher level of proteinuria and a worse renal function at baseline than those of responders. There was no significant difference in the overall adverse events or serious adverse events between the two groups. Conclusion In our study, AMN patients obtained proteinuria remission in a lower percentage compared with IMN patients. In general, rituximab-based therapy is effective in AMN patients with an acceptable safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rongrong Hu
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Shi
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ke Zheng
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hang Li
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yubing Wen
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuemei Li
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuewang Li
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peng Xia
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Qin
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Hua MR, Zhao YL, Yang JZ, Zou L, Zhao YY, Li X. Membranous nephropathy: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic perspectives. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 120:110317. [PMID: 37207447 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is one of the most common causes of non-diabetic nephrotic syndrome in adults. About 80% of cases are renal limited (primary MN) and 20% are associated with other systemic diseases or exposures (secondary MN). Autoimmune reaction is the main pathogenic factor of MN, and the discovery of autoantigens including the phospholipase A2 receptor and thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing protein 7A has led to new insights into the pathogenesis, they can induce humoral immune responses led by IgG4 makes them suitable for the diagnosis and monitoring of MN. In addition, complement activation, genetic susceptibility genes and environmental pollution are also involved in MN immune response. In clinical practice, due to the spontaneous remission of MN, the combination of supportive therapy and pharmacological treatment is widely used. Immunosuppressive drugs are the cornerstone of MN treatment, and the dangers and benefits of this approach vary from person to person. In summary, this review provides a more comprehensive review of the immune pathogenesis, interventions and unresolved issues of MN in the hope of providing some new ideas for clinical and scientific researchers in the treatment of MN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Ru Hua
- Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, No. 777 Xitai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710000, China
| | - Yan-Long Zhao
- Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, No. 777 Xitai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710000, China
| | - Jun-Zheng Yang
- Guangdong nephrotic drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Institute of Consun Co. for Chinese Medicine in Kidney Diseases, Guangdong Consun Pharmaceutical Group, No. 71 Dongpeng avenue, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510530, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025 Chengluo Avenue, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, No. 777 Xitai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710000, China; School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025 Chengluo Avenue, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China; School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China.
| | - Xia Li
- Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, No. 777 Xitai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710000, China.
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Deng L, Xu G. Update on the Application of Monoclonal Antibody Therapy in Primary Membranous Nephropathy. Drugs 2023; 83:507-530. [PMID: 37017915 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01855-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
When first introduced, rituximab (RTX), a chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, brought about an alternative therapeutic paradigm for primary membranous nephropathy (PMN). Rituximab was shown to be effective and safe in PMN patients with kidney dysfunction, with. patients receiving second-line rituximab therapy achieving remission as effectively as those patients who had not previously received immunotherapy. No safety issues were reported. The B cell-driven protocol seems to be as efficient as the 375 mg/m2 × 4 regimen or 1 g × 2 regimen in achieving B cell depletion and remission, but patients with high M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) antibody levels may benefit from a higher dose of rituximab. While rituximab added another therapeutic option to the treatment regimen, it does have limitations as 20 to 40% of patients do not respond. Not all patients respond to RTX therapy for lymphoproliferative disorders either, therefore further novel anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies have been developed and these may provide alternative therapeutic options for PMN. Ofatumumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody, specifically recognizes an epitope encompassing both the small and large extracellular loops of the CD20 molecule, resulting in increased complement-dependent cytotoxic activity. Ocrelizumab binds an alternative but overlapping epitope region to rituximab and displays enhanced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxic (ADCC) activities. Obinutuzumab is designed to have a modified elbow-hinge amino acid sequence, leading to increased direct cell death induction and ADCC activities. In PMN clinical studies, ocrelizumab and obinutuzumab showed promising results, while ofatumumab displayed mixed results. However, there is a lack of randomized controlled trials with large samples, especially direct head-to-head comparisons. Alternative molecular mechanisms have been suggested in this context to explore novel therapeutic strategies. B cell activator-targeted, plasma cell-targeted and complement-directed treatments may lead to novel therapy paradigms for PMN. Exploratory strategies for the use of drugs with different mechanisms, such as a combination of rituximab and cyclophosphamide and a steroid, a combination of rituximab and a calcineurin inhibitor, may provide more rapid and efficient remission, but the combination of standard immunosuppression with rituximab could increase infection risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Deng
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1, Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Gaosi Xu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1, Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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Rojas-Rivera JE, Ortiz A, Fervenza FC. Novel Treatments Paradigms: Membranous Nephropathy. Kidney Int Rep 2023; 8:419-431. [PMID: 36938069 PMCID: PMC10014375 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary membranous nephropathy (MN) is a kidney-specific autoimmune glomerular disease and the leading cause of nephrotic syndrome (NS) in White adults, usually caused by antiphospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) antibodies, although several new target antigens have been recently identified. It is characterized by the diffuse thickening of the glomerular basement membrane secondary to immune complex deposition. In patients with persistent NS without response to maximizing conservative therapy including the use of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockers, the use of immunosuppressive agents is warranted. However, the optimal immunosuppressive treatment has not yet been established. Classical immunosuppressants, such as cyclophosphamide plus steroids, are effective but may cause clinically relevant adverse effects, limiting their use. Rituximab offers efficacy with a better safety profile whereas calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) are marred by high relapse rates and nephrotoxicity. Nevertheless, up to 30% of patients fail to respond to standard therapy. Novel and specific therapies targeting B cells and plasma cells have shown encouraging preliminary results, in terms of clinical efficacy and safety profile, especially in patients with poor tolerance or refractory to conventional treatments. In this brief review, we discuss the benefits and limitations of the current therapeutic approach to MN and describe emerging novel therapies that target its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge E. Rojas-Rivera
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: Jorge E. Rojas-Rivera, Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Av. De los Reyes Católicos 2, Madrid 28040, Spain.
| | - Alberto Ortiz
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando C. Fervenza
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Fernando C. Fervenza, Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
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Alzayer H, Sebastian KK, O’Shaughnessy MM. Rituximab Dosing in Glomerular Diseases: A Scoping Review. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2022; 9:20543581221129959. [PMID: 36275037 PMCID: PMC9583230 DOI: 10.1177/20543581221129959] [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: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose of Review Rituximab is increasingly prescribed for glomerular diseases. However, the recently published Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) 2021 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Glomerular Diseases lacks details on recommended dosing regimens for most individual glomerular diseases. We performed this scoping review summarizing the evidence for rituximab dosing in glomerular disease. Sources of Information PubMed database. Methods The PubMed search methodology was developed with a medical librarian and performed by the first, with review by a second, author. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies (PCSs) examining rituximab efficacy and/or safety in antineutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV), membranous nephropathy (MN), lupus nephritis (LN), or podocytopathies (minimal change disease or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis [FSGS]) were included. Fifty-three studies (14 RCTs and 39 PCSs) were included. Key Findings We identified 16 different rituximab dosing regimens studied as induction therapy for one or more of the 5 glomerular diseases of interest. The most frequently studied rituximab induction regimens were 1000 mg as 2 doses 2 weeks apart (17 studies, 32%) and 4 doses of 375 mg/m2/week (18 studies, 33.9%). Twenty-six studies (49%) examined rituximab as monotherapy or in conjunction with corticosteroids alone, while the remaining studies examined rituximab as part of combination immunosuppression. Adapting treatment to achieve B-cell depletion, with frequent evaluation of disease-specific biomarkers, might prove the optimal approach to achieving and maintaining remission. Rituximab might also enable steroid minimization or avoidance. Limitations Restriction of the search to a single database and to studies published in the English language, and with an accompanying abstract, could have led to selection bias. While the search was limited to prospective observational studies and RCTs, no formal assessment of study quality was performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Husam Alzayer
- Department of Nephrology, Ministry of
Health, Arar, Saudi Arabia,Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland,
Dublin, Ireland,Husam Alzayer, Department of Nephrology,
Ministry of Health, Arar, Northern Boarders, 73241, Saudi Arabia.
;
| | - Kuruvilla K. Sebastian
- Department of Renal Medicine, Cork
University Hospital, Ireland,Department of Medicine, National
University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
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Perna A, Ruggiero B, Podestà MA, Perico L, Orisio S, Debiec H, Remuzzi G, Ruggenenti P. Sexual dimorphic response to rituximab treatment: A longitudinal observational study in a large cohort of patients with primary membranous nephropathy and persistent nephrotic syndrome. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:958136. [PMID: 36120314 PMCID: PMC9479107 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.958136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rituximab is one of the first-line therapies for patients with membranous nephropathy (MN) at high risk of progression towards kidney failure. We investigated whether the response to Rituximab was affected by sex and anti-PLA2R antibody levels in 204 consecutive patients (148 males and 56 females) with biopsy-proven MN who were referred to the Nephrology Unit of the Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Papa Giovanni XXIII from March 2001 to October 2016 and managed conservatively for at least 6 months. The primary outcome was a combined endpoint of complete (proteinuria <0.3 g/24 h) or partial (proteinuria <3.0 g/24 h and >50% reduction vs. baseline) remission. Patients gave written informed consent to Rituximab treatment. The study was internally funded. No pharmaceutical company was involved. Anti-PLA2R antibodies were detectable in 125 patients (61.3%). At multivariable analyses, female gender (p = 0.0198) and lower serum creatinine levels (p = 0.0108) emerged as independent predictors of better outcome (p = 0.0198). The predictive value of proteinuria (p = 0.054) and anti-PLA2R titer (p = 0.0766) was borderline significant. Over a median (IQR) of 24.8 (12.0–36.0) months, 40 females (71.4%) progressed to the combined endpoint compared with 73 males (49.3%). Anti-PLA2R titers at baseline [127.6 (35.7-310.8) vs. 110.1 (39.9–226.7) RU/ml] and after Rituximab treatment were similar between the sexes. However, the event rate was significantly higher in females than in males [HR (95%): 2.12 (1.44–3.12), p = 0.0001]. Forty-five of the 62 patients (72.3%) with anti-PLA2R titer below the median progressed to the combined endpoint versus 35 of the 63 (55.6%) with higher titer [HR (95%): 1.97 (1.26–3.07), p < 0.0029]. The highest probability of progressing to the combined endpoint was observed in females with anti-PLA2R antibody titer below the median (86.7%), followed by females with anti-PLA2R antibody titer above the median (83.3%), males with titer below the median (68.1%), and males with titer above the median (44.4%). This trend was statistically significant (p = 0.0023). Similar findings were observed for complete remission (proteinuria <0.3 g/24 h) and after analysis adjustments for baseline serum creatinine. Thus, despite similar immunological features, females were more resilient to renal injury following Rituximab therapy. These findings will hopefully open new avenues to identify the molecular pathways underlying sex-related nephroprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Perna
- Department of Renal Medicine, Centro di Ricerche Cliniche Aldo e Cale Daccò, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Barbara Ruggiero
- Department of Renal Medicine, Centro di Ricerche Cliniche Aldo e Cale Daccò, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Manuel Alfredo Podestà
- Department of Renal Medicine, Centro di Ricerche Cliniche Aldo e Cale Daccò, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luca Perico
- Department of Renal Medicine, Centro di Ricerche Cliniche Aldo e Cale Daccò, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Silvia Orisio
- Department of Renal Medicine, Centro di Ricerche Cliniche Aldo e Cale Daccò, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Hanna Debiec
- Sorbonne Université and Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche, Paris, France
| | - Giuseppe Remuzzi
- Department of Renal Medicine, Centro di Ricerche Cliniche Aldo e Cale Daccò, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giuseppe Remuzzi,
| | - Piero Ruggenenti
- Department of Renal Medicine, Centro di Ricerche Cliniche Aldo e Cale Daccò, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
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Ahmadian E, Khatibi SMH, Vahed SZ, Ardalan M. Novel treatment options in rituximab-resistant membranous nephropathy patients. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 107:108635. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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11
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Ou JY, Chen YW, Li TL, Shan HZ, Cui S, Lai JJ, Xiao Y. Evaluation of efficacy of rituximab for membranous nephropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 studies. Nephrol Ther 2022; 18:104-112. [PMID: 35074299 DOI: 10.1016/j.nephro.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of traditional immunosuppressive medicines for the treatment of membranous nephropathy is being challenged, owing to its limited efficacy and tolerability. Research on M-type phospholipase A2 receptor antibodies has provided a new way for evaluating the efficiency and prognosis of treatment of membranous nephropathy. However, the relationship between rituximab, a monoclonal antibody against CD20, and antiphospholipase A2 receptor antibodies and the drug regimen of rituximab for membranous nephropathy is uncertain. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of rituximab treatments in membranous nephropathy and compared the clinical effects of first-line and second-line rituximab therapies. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register ofControlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched to find articles about rituximab treatment of patients with membranous nephropathy between January 2000 and August 2020. The outcomes included remission, antiphospholipase A2 receptor antibodies, relapse, and adverse events. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation criteria were used to evaluate the strength of evidence. RESULTS A total of 723 participants from 11 trials were included in this meta-analysis. The other treatments included cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide, steroids, and non-immunosuppressive antiproteinuric treatment. Rituximab significantly improved cumulative remission (P=0.007; Odds Ratio [OR]=3.06; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.35-6.94) compared with other treatments. It significantly reduced relapse (P<0.00001; OR=0.06; 95% CI=0.02-0.19), antiphospholipase A2 receptor antibody levels (P=0.0009; SMD=-0.52; 95% CI=-0.83 to -0.21), and the proportion of patients positive for anti-PLA2R antibodies (P=0.003; OR=6.11; 95% CI=1.85-20.24) compared with other treatments. Compared with the second-line, first-line rituximab therapy achieved a higher rate of cumulative remission (P=0.03; OR=0.32, 95% CI=0.11-0.91). CONCLUSIONS Rituximab can improve the rate of clinical remission in patients with membranous nephropathy. Rituximab was more effective than other treatments in reducing relapse, antiphospholipase A2 receptor antibody levels, and the proportion of patients positive for antiphospholipase A2 receptor antibodies. The clinical remission rate following first-line rituximab therapy was better than that of second-line rituximab therapy for membranous nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Yong Ou
- Department of nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 151, Yanjiang Road, 510120 Guangzhou, China; First clinical college, Guangzhou Medical University, 511436 Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Wei Chen
- Department of nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 151, Yanjiang Road, 510120 Guangzhou, China; First clinical college, Guangzhou Medical University, 511436 Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian-Long Li
- Department of nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 151, Yanjiang Road, 510120 Guangzhou, China; First clinical college, Guangzhou Medical University, 511436 Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui-Zhi Shan
- Department of nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 151, Yanjiang Road, 510120 Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, 510230 Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sini Cui
- Department of nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 151, Yanjiang Road, 510120 Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Ju Lai
- Department of nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 151, Yanjiang Road, 510120 Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Xiao
- Department of nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 151, Yanjiang Road, 510120 Guangzhou, China.
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12
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Gao S, Cui Z, Wang X, Zhang YM, Wang F, Cheng XY, Meng LQ, Zhou FD, Liu G, Zhao MH. Rituximab Therapy for Primary Membranous Nephropathy in a Chinese Cohort. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:663680. [PMID: 34095173 PMCID: PMC8172988 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.663680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Rituximab has become one of the first-line therapies for the treatment of moderate and high-risk primary membranous nephropathy (pMN). We retrospectively reviewed 95 patients with pMN who received rituximab therapy and focused on the therapeutic effects and safety of this therapy in a Chinese cohort. Methods: Ninety-five consecutive patients with pMN diagnosed by kidney biopsy received rituximab and were followed up for >6 months. Four weekly doses of rituximab (375 mg/m2) was adopted as the initial administration. Repeated single infusions were administrated to maintain B cell depletion levels of <5 cells/mL. Results: A total of 91 patients completed rituximab therapy with the total dose of 2.4 (2.0, 3.0) g; 64/78 (82.1%) patients achieved anti-PLA2R antibody depletion in 6.0 (1.0, 12.0) months; 53/91 (58.2%) patients achieved clinical remission in 12.0 (6.0, 24.0) months, including complete remission in 18.7% of patients and partial remission in 39.6% of patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that severe proteinuria (OR = 1.22, P = 0.006) and the persistent positivity of anti-PLA2R antibodies (OR = 9.00, P = 0.002) were independent risk factors for no-remission. The remission rate of rituximab as an initial therapy was higher than rituximab as an alternative therapy (73.1 vs. 52.3%, P = 0.038). Lastly, 45 adverse events occurred in 37 patients, but only one patient withdrew from treatment due to severe pulmonary infection. Conclusion: Rituximab is a safe and effective treatment option for Chinese patients with pMN, especially as an initial therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Gao
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Cui
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Miao Zhang
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Xu-Yang Cheng
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Qiang Meng
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Fu-de Zhou
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China
| | - Ming-Hui Zhao
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
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13
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Gauckler P, Shin JI, Alberici F, Audard V, Bruchfeld A, Busch M, Cheung CK, Crnogorac M, Delbarba E, Eller K, Faguer S, Galesic K, Griffin S, van den Hoogen MW, Hrušková Z, Jeyabalan A, Karras A, King C, Kohli HS, Mayer G, Maas R, Muto M, Moiseev S, Odler B, Pepper RJ, Quintana LF, Radhakrishnan J, Ramachandran R, Salama AD, Schönermarck U, Segelmark M, Smith L, Tesař V, Wetzels J, Willcocks L, Windpessl M, Zand L, Zonozi R, Kronbichler A. Rituximab in Membranous Nephropathy. Kidney Int Rep 2021; 6:881-893. [PMID: 33912740 PMCID: PMC8071613 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2020.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is the most common cause of primary nephrotic syndrome among adults. The identification of phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) as target antigen in most patients changed the management of MN dramatically, and provided a rationale for B-cell depleting agents such as rituximab. The efficacy of rituximab in inducing remission has been investigated in several studies, including 3 randomized controlled trials, in which complete and partial remission of proteinuria was achieved in approximately two-thirds of treated patients. Due to its favorable safety profile, rituximab is now considered a first-line treatment option for MN, especially in patients at moderate and high risk of deterioration in kidney function. However, questions remain about how to best use rituximab, including the optimal dosing regimen, a potential need for maintenance therapy, and assessment of long-term safety and efficacy outcomes. In this review, we provide an overview of the current literature and discuss both strengths and limitations of "the new standard."
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Gauckler
- Department of Internal Medicine IV (Nephrology and Hypertension), Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Severance Children's Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Kidney Disease Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Federico Alberici
- Nephrology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialities, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Vincent Audard
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, Rare French Disease Centre "Idiopathic Nephrotic syndrome", Henri-Mondor/Albert-Chenevier Hospital Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Inserm U955, Team 21, Paris-East University, Créteil, France
| | - Annette Bruchfeld
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Renal Medicine, CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Busch
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Jena, Germany
| | - Chee Kay Cheung
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- John Walls Renal Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Matija Crnogorac
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Elisa Delbarba
- Nephrology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Kathrin Eller
- Clinical Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Stanislas Faguer
- Département de Néphrologie et Transplantation d'Organes, Centre de Référence des Maladies Rénales Rares, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1048 (Institut des Maladies Cardiovasculaires et Métaboliques-équipe 12), Toulouse, France
| | - Kresimir Galesic
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Siân Griffin
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Zdenka Hrušková
- Department of Nephrology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anushya Jeyabalan
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alexandre Karras
- Service de Néphrologie, Hôpital Européen-Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Catherine King
- Department of Renal Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Harbir Singh Kohli
- Nephrology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Gert Mayer
- Department of Internal Medicine IV (Nephrology and Hypertension), Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rutger Maas
- Department of Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Masahiro Muto
- Department of Nephrology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sergey Moiseev
- Tareev Clinic of Internal Diseases, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Balazs Odler
- Clinical Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Ruth J. Pepper
- University College London Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Luis F. Quintana
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, Hospital Clínic, Centro de Referencia en Enfermedad Glomerular Compleja del Sistema Nacional de Salud (CSUR), Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jai Radhakrishnan
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Raja Ramachandran
- Nephrology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Alan D. Salama
- University College London Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ulf Schönermarck
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Mårten Segelmark
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, University, Skane University Hospital, Nephrology Lund, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lee Smith
- The Cambridge Centre for Sport and Exercise Science, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Vladimír Tesař
- Department of Nephrology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jack Wetzels
- Department of Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Lisa Willcocks
- Department of Renal Medicine, Vasculitis and Lupus Clinic, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Martin Windpessl
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Section of Nephrology, Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen, Wels, Austria
- Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Ladan Zand
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Reza Zonozi
- Division of Nephrology, Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andreas Kronbichler
- Department of Internal Medicine IV (Nephrology and Hypertension), Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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14
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Huang L, Dong QR, Zhao YJ, Hu GC. Rituximab for the management of idiopathic membranous nephropathy: a meta-analysis. Int Urol Nephrol 2020; 53:111-119. [PMID: 32944889 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-020-02633-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of rituximab therapy in the management of idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). METHODS After literature search, data from eligible studies were used to perform random-effects meta-analyses to estimate remission rates and changes in proteinuria at the latest follow-up after rituximab therapy. The outcomes were used for metaregression to identify the factors affecting the efficacy of rituximab. RESULTS Twenty-one studies were included in the analysis (602 patients; age 50 years [95% CI 46.8, 53.3]; 30% females [95% CI 23, 31]). Follow-up duration was 20.3 months [95% CI 17.1, 23.5]. Remission rate (67% [95% CI 61, 73]) was higher in studies with below average baseline proteinuria (76% [95% CI 61, 88]) than in studies with above average baseline proteinuria (61% [95% CI 54, 68]). The complete and partial remission rates were 26% [95% CI 20, 33] and 37% [95% CI 31, 43], respectively. Rituximab therapy significantly reduced proteinuria (mean difference between final and baseline values: - 4.90 g/day [95% CI - 6.18, - 3.63]; p < 0.00001; % reduction: 62% [95% CI 57, 68]). The reduction in proteinuria was inversely associated with baseline serum albumin levels (p = 0.021) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (p < 0.00001) and was positively associated with baseline proteinuria (p < 0.00001). The remission rate or decrease in proteinuria was not significantly related to the anti-PLA2R antibody status or previous immunosuppressant therapy. CONCLUSION Rituximab therapy in IMN patients can provide approximately 67% remission rate. The reduction in proteinuria was greater in patients who had higher baseline proteinuria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Huang
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, 36 Nanyingzi St, Shuangqiao Qu, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - Qiao-Rong Dong
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, 36 Nanyingzi St, Shuangqiao Qu, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - Ya-Juan Zhao
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, 36 Nanyingzi St, Shuangqiao Qu, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - Gui-Cai Hu
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, 36 Nanyingzi St, Shuangqiao Qu, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China.
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15
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The efficacy of rituximab in the treatment of refractory nephrotic syndrome: a meta-analysis. Int Urol Nephrol 2020; 52:1093-1101. [PMID: 32297182 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-020-02460-8] [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: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The evidence from epidemiological research on whether the efficacy of rituximab in treatment of refractory nephrotic syndrome (NS) is better than other agents is inconsistent. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy of rituximab in the treatment of NS compared with other immunosuppressive agents. METHODS Relevant literatures were identified and evaluated for quality before October 2019 through multiple search strategies on PubMed and EMBASE. Statistical evidence of the symmetry of the funnel plot obtained from Begg's test was indicated by Egger's linear regression and a sensitivity analysis identified heterogeneity. A fixed- or a random-effects model was applied to calculate the pooled SMDs and RRs. RESULTS A total of 12 studies, involving 383 patients and 354 controls, were included. Compared with other agents, rituximab significantly improved complete remission both in children and adults [Overall: RR = 1.313, 95% CI = 1.170-1.475, P < 0.001; Adult: RR = 1.359, 95% CI = 1.053-1.753, P = 0.019 Children: RR = 1.354, 95% CI = 1.072-1.709, P < 0.001], and dramatically decreased the relapse rate in children [Overall: RR = 0.349, 95% CI = 0.166-0.732, P < 0.001; Children: RR = 0.286, 95% CI = 0.176-0.463, P < 0.001]. CONCLUSIONS Rituximab might be a promising treatment for refractory NS. Compared with other agents, rituximab significantly improves the complete remission and decreased the relapse rate. However, to confirm the efficacy of rituximab in the treatment of refractory NS, more high-quality, large sample, and multicenter randomized controlled trials are needed.
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16
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Lu W, Gong S, Li J, Luo H, Wang Y. Efficacy and safety of rituximab in the treatment of membranous nephropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e19804. [PMID: 32311997 PMCID: PMC7440335 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000019804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Rituximab (RTX) is considered to be a promising drug for curing membranous nephropathy. However, the efficacy and safety of RTX in treating membranous nephropathy remain uncertain. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of RTX in patients with membranous nephropathy. METHODS A literature search was performed using Pubmed, Embase, OVID, and Cochrane Library and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) case-controls and cohort studies published till 30 July 2019 were assessed. The studies assessing the efficacy and safety of RTX in patients with membranous nephropathy were included. RESULTS Eight relevant trials involving 542 patients were included in the meta-analysis. It was found that RTX did not significantly improve serum albumin levels and e-GFR when compared with the control group (including cyclosporine and cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, prednisone, non-immunosuppressive anti-proteinuria treatment), serum albumin levels (OR = 0.31, 95%CI-0.12-0.74, P = .15), e-GFR (OR = -1.49, 95%CI-17.14-14.17, P = .85). However, RTX did reduce the serum creatinine (OR = -0.01, 95%CI-0.36-0.34, P = .95) and urinary protein (OR = -2.39, 95%CI -7.30 -2.53, P = .34) levels. Also, in comparison to the control group, RTX did improve the total remission rate (OR = 1.63, 95%CI 0.48-5.54, P = .43), achieve a higher rate of complete remission (OR = 2.54, 95%CI 1.65-3.90, P < .01) and also reduced the amount of M-type phospholipase A2 receptor-Antibody depletion in patients (OR = 5.59, 95%CI 1.81-17.2, P = .003). RTX-related adverse events were mostly mild (most infusion-related reactions) in nature and serious adverse events were rare. CONCLUSION RTX proved to be efficient, well-tolerated and a safe drug in the treatment of membranous nephropathy. Most patients reach complete remission during the follow-up period, and relapse is rare. RTX may turn out to be promising in membranous nephropathy patients.
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17
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Trujillo H, Alonso M, Praga M. New Ways of Understanding Membranous Nephropathy. Nephron Clin Pract 2020; 144:261-271. [PMID: 32229730 DOI: 10.1159/000506948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last decade, great advances have been made in the field of membranous nephropathy (MN). The autoimmune nature of the disease has been confirmed with the description of diverse antigens, and few but very important prospective trials regarding treatment alternatives have been published, changing profoundly the way we understand this entity. Nowadays, an individualized therapeutic scheme based on clinical and serologic data appears to be the most appropriate method to manage patients with MN. Although there is still a long way to go, it is expected that future scientific progress will enable a patient-centered medicine based on concept-driven therapies. SUMMARY MN is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome (NS) in white adults. Approximately one-third of patients achieve spontaneous remission, one-third remain stable, and one-third have an aggressive course with persistent NS and deterioration of renal function. About 80% of patients have circulating autoantibodies to phospholipase A2 receptor 1. Numerous therapies have been described including alkylating agents, rituximab, and calcineurin inhibitors, but new drugs are currently being explored. Here, we review the most important aspects regarding MN with an emphasis on results of the most recent clinical trials and pathophysiologic advances. Key Messages: 1. Evolving pathophysiologic concepts and recently published clinical trials have deeply changed our view of MN. 2. Most patients with MN present autoantibodies against diverse glomerular antigens. 3. Currently, an individual patient-centered management based on clinical and serologic markers is the most adequate approach to treat patients with MN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernando Trujillo
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain.,Investigation Institute of University Hospital "12 de Octubre" (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Alonso
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Praga
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain, .,Investigation Institute of University Hospital "12 de Octubre" (imas12), Madrid, Spain, .,Department of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain,
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18
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Cravedi P, Jarque M, Angeletti A, Favà À, Cantarelli C, Bestard O. Immune-Monitoring Disease Activity in Primary Membranous Nephropathy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2019; 6:241. [PMID: 31788474 PMCID: PMC6856075 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2019.00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary membranous nephropathy (MN) is a glomerular disease mediated by autoreactive antibodies, being the main cause of nephrotic syndrome among adult patients. While the pathogenesis of MN is still controversial, the detection of autoantibodies against two specific glomerular antigens, phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type 1 domain containing 7A (THSD7A), together with the beneficial effect of therapies targeting B cells, have highlighted the main role of autoreactive B cells driving this renal disease. In fact, the detection of PLA2R-specific IgG4 antibodies has resulted in a paradigm shift regarding the diagnosis as well as a better prediction of the progression and recurrence of primary MN. Nevertheless, some patients do not show remission of the nephrotic syndrome or do rapidly recur after immunosuppression withdrawal, regardless the absence of detectable anti-PLA2R antibodies, thus highlighting the need of other immune biomarkers for MN risk-stratification. Notably, the exclusive evaluation of circulating antibodies may significantly underestimate the magnitude of the global humoral memory immune response since it may exclude the role of antigen-specific memory B cells. Therefore, the assessment of PLA2R-specific B-cell immune responses using novel technologies in a functional manner may provide novel insight on the pathogenic mechanisms of B cells triggering MN as well as refine current immune-risk stratification solely based on circulating autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Cravedi
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Marta Jarque
- Experimental Nephrology Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrea Angeletti
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), St. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Àlex Favà
- Experimental Nephrology Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Chiara Cantarelli
- UO Nefrologia, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Oriol Bestard
- Experimental Nephrology Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain.,Kidney Transplant Unit, Nephrology Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona University, Biomedical Research Institute of Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
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Chauhan K, Mehta AA. Rituximab in kidney disease and transplant. Animal Model Exp Med 2019; 2:76-82. [PMID: 31392300 PMCID: PMC6600632 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that binds to CD20 antigen of B-cells. It depletes the level of mature B-cells by various mechanisms such as mediation of antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, complement-dependent cytotoxicity, and B-cell apoptosis. Rituximab is a USFDA approved drug for clinical use in non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma (NHL), rheumatoid arthritis, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), granulomatosis with polyangiitis and pemphigus vulgaris. It is also known for its "off label" use in renal disease and renal transplant worldwide. However, the exact mechanisms by which it exerts its effect in the aforementioned condition remain unclear but may be related to its long-term effects on plasma cell development and the impact on B-cell modulation of T cell responses. This review discusses the current use of rituximab in renal disease and renal transplantation, and its potential role in novel therapeutic protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kajal Chauhan
- Medical ServicesTorrent PharmaceuticalsAhmedabadIndia
| | - Anita A. Mehta
- Department of PharmacologyL. M. College of PharmacyAhmedabadGujaratIndia
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20
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Zhou XJ, Zhou FD, Wang SX, Zhao MH. A case report of remission of refractory membranous nephropathy progressing to stage 4 chronic kidney disease using low-dose rituximab: A long-term follow-up. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e11184. [PMID: 29924035 PMCID: PMC6024028 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000011184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE As suggested by the 2012 KDIGO guidelines, persistent elevation of serum creatinine > 3.5 mg/dl (> 309 μmol/l) (or an estimated glomerular filtration rate < 30 ml/min per 1.73 m is one of contradictions for the use of immunosuppressive therapy in membranous nephropathy. PATIENT CONCERNS A 45-year-old man with membranous nephropathy negative for serum anti-phospholipase-A2-receptor antibody, showed no response to corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide. He progressed to chronic kidney disease stage 4 (CKD4) under tacrolimus and relapsed after withdrawal. DIAGNOSES The patient received repeated renal biopsy, comfirming the diagnosis of membranous nephropathy with progressive glomerular and tubulointerstitial scarring. INTERVENTIONS He was treated with successfully four times with lose-dose (180 mg/m every 2-3 months) rituximab (RTX) depending on his B cell counts, aiming to remain at 0-5 cells/μl. OUTCOMES The patient was followed-up for almost 6 years. He achieved a partial remission at 11 months and a complete remission of the nephritic range of proteinuria at 34 months following infusion of RTX. RTX was well tolerated and the patient's renal function improved. He had no edema and his dosage of corticosteroids could be discontinued. LESSONS This case strongly suggested that rituximab has promising therapeutic significance, even in patients progressing to CKD4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Jie Zhou
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, and Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
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21
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Jellouli M, Charfi R, Maalej B, Mahfoud A, Trabelsi S, Gargah T. Rituximab in The Management of Pediatric Steroid-Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome: A Systematic Review. J Pediatr 2018; 197:191-197.e1. [PMID: 29680473 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy and safety of rituximab in children with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome. STUDY DESIGN A systematic review evaluating the efficacy and safety of rituximab in children with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome was performed. Data from studies, performed before April 2017 were collected, from MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science. Study eligibility criteria included clinical trials and observational studies with a minimal sample size of 5 patients, regarding treatment with rituximab in children with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome. Independent extraction of articles by 2 investigators using predefined data fields was performed. RESULTS We included 7 case series and 1 open-label randomized controlled trial. Among them, 3 studies were multicenter. A total of 226 patients were included. Mean age at onset was 5.6 ± 1.1 years. Mean number of rituximab administrations was 3.1 ± 1.1 infusions per patient. Remission was observed in 89 patients (46.4%). Remission was seen in 40.8% patients with initial steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome and 52.8% patients with late steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome. Good initial response to rituximab therapy was observed in 63.2% patients with minimal change nephrotic syndrome, 39.2% patients with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis, 1 patient had diffuse mesangial hypercellularity, and 1 patient had IgM nephropathy. Sustained remission ranged from 18% to 93.7%. Five serious adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS Rituximab exhibited a satisfactory profile regarding efficacy and safety indicating that this agent is a promising therapy for steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome and should be further investigated by randomized clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manel Jellouli
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Rim Charfi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, National Center of Pharmacovigilance, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology Laboratory LR16SP02, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Bayen Maalej
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Emergency and Intensive Care, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Abdelmajid Mahfoud
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Emergency and Intensive Care, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Sameh Trabelsi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, National Center of Pharmacovigilance, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology Laboratory LR16SP02, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Tahar Gargah
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
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22
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Printza N, Georeli I, Stabouli S, Dotis J, Sidira C, Papachristou F. Response to: Pharmacological treatment of primary membranous nephropathy in 2016. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2018; 11:459-461. [DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2018.1466414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nikoleta Printza
- 1st Pediatric Department, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ireni Georeli
- 1st Pediatric Department, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stella Stabouli
- 1st Pediatric Department, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - John Dotis
- 1st Pediatric Department, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christina Sidira
- 1st Pediatric Department, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
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23
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Tedjaseputra A, McLornan D, McCormick J, Raj K, de Lavallade H, Potter V, Kenyon M, Pagliuca A, Marsh J, Mufti G. Anti-type M phospholipase A2 receptor antibody-positive membranous nephropathy as a part of multi-system autoimmune syndrome post-allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Intern Med J 2018; 48:481-483. [PMID: 29623981 DOI: 10.1111/imj.13762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Tedjaseputra
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Donal McLornan
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jill McCormick
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Kavita Raj
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Hugues de Lavallade
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Victoria Potter
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Michelle Kenyon
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Antonio Pagliuca
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Judith Marsh
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ghulam Mufti
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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24
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Dahan K, Gillion V, Johanet C, Debiec H, Ronco P. The Role of PLA2R Antibody in Treatment of Membranous Nephropathy. Kidney Int Rep 2017; 3:498-501. [PMID: 29725656 PMCID: PMC5932125 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karine Dahan
- AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Paris, France
| | - Valentine Gillion
- AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Johanet
- AP-HP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, Department of Immunology, Paris, France
| | - Hanna Debiec
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University Paris 06, Paris, France.,INSERM, UMR_S 1155, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Ronco
- AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University Paris 06, Paris, France.,INSERM, UMR_S 1155, Paris, France
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25
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Nixon A, Ogden L, Woywodt A, Dhaygude A. Infectious complications of rituximab therapy in renal disease. Clin Kidney J 2017; 10:455-460. [PMID: 28852481 PMCID: PMC5570071 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfx038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, was originally used to treat B-cell malignancies. Its use has significantly increased in recent years, as it is now also used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). Initial studies suggested that the adverse effects of rituximab were minimal. Though the risk of malignancy with rituximab-based immunosuppressive regimens appears similar to that of the general population, there are now concerns regarding the risk of infectious complications. Rituximab has been associated with serious infections, including Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) and the reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and tuberculosis (TB). The risk of infection appears to be the result of a variety of mechanisms, including prolonged B-cell depletion, B-cell–T-cell crosstalk, panhypogammaglobulinaemia, late-onset neutropenia and blunting of the immune response after vaccination. Importantly, the risk of infectious complications is also related to individual patient characteristics and the indication for rituximab. Individualization of treatment is, therefore, crucial. Particular attention should be given to strategies to minimize the risk of infectious complications, including vaccinating against bacterial and viral pathogens, monitoring white cell count and immunoglobulin levels, prophylaxis against PJP and screening for HBV and TB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Nixon
- Department of Renal Medicine, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK
| | - Leanne Ogden
- Department of Renal Medicine, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Alexander Woywodt
- Department of Renal Medicine, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK
| | - Ajay Dhaygude
- Department of Renal Medicine, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK
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Abstract
In patients with membranous nephropathy, alkylating agents (cyclophosphamide or chlorambucil) alone or in combination with steroids achieve remission of nephrotic syndrome more effectively than conservative treatment or steroids alone, but can cause myelotoxicity, infections, and cancer. Calcineurin inhibitors can improve proteinuria, but are nephrotoxic. Most patients relapse after treatment withdrawal and can become treatment dependent, which increases the risk of nephrotoxicity. The discovery of nephritogenic autoantibodies against podocyte M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type-1 domain- containing protein 7A (THSD7A) antigens provides a clear pathophysiological rationale for interventions that specifically target B-cell lineages to prevent antibody production and subepithelial deposition. The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab is safe and achieves remission of proteinuria in approximately two-thirds of patients with membranous nephropathy. In those with PLA2R-related disease, remission can be predicted by anti-PLA2R antibody depletion and relapse by antibody re-emergence into the circulation. Thus, integrated evaluation of serology and proteinuria could guide identification of affected patients and treatment with individually tailored protocols. Nonspecific and toxic immunosuppressive regimens will fall out of use. B-cell modulation by rituximab and second-generation anti-CD20 antibodies (or plasma cell-targeted therapy in anti-CD20 resistant forms of disease) will lead to a novel therapeutic paradigm for patients with membranous nephropathy.
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27
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Katsuno T, Ozaki T, Kim H, Kato N, Suzuki Y, Akiyama S, Ishimoto T, Kosugi T, Tsuboi N, Ito Y, Maruyama S. Single-dose Rituximab Therapy for Refractory Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy: A Single-center Experience. Intern Med 2017; 56:1679-1686. [PMID: 28674357 PMCID: PMC5519470 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.56.7908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
To date, a recognized treatment for refractory membranous nephropathy (MN) has not been established. Recently, several reports have indicated the efficacy of rituximab as a novel treatment option. However, only a few published accounts exist of rituximab therapy for idiopathic MN (IMN) in the Asian population. We present the cases of three IMN patients who were treated with single-dose rituximab after they showed no response to conventional therapies, including corticosteroids, cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide, mizoribine, and mycophenolate mofetil. Although one case showed no response, a complete or incomplete remission was achieved in the other two cases. Rituximab may therefore be a beneficial treatment option for IMN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Katsuno
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Takenori Ozaki
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hangsoo Kim
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Noritoshi Kato
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Suzuki
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Shinichi Akiyama
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Takuji Ishimoto
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Tomoki Kosugi
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Naotake Tsuboi
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Ito
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Shoichi Maruyama
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
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Yin S, He T, Li Y, Wang J, Zeng W, Tang S, Zhao J. Rituximab shows no effect on remission in patients with refractory nephrotic syndrome: A MOOSE-compliant meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e5320. [PMID: 27977574 PMCID: PMC5268020 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000005320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
To assess the efficacy of rituximab in treatment of refractory nephrotic syndrome (NS) compared with other agents.Studies were searched from Web of Science, PubMed, and CNKI up to April 2016. The standardized mean difference or relative risk or odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the efficacy of rituximab treatment compared with other agents in refractory NS.Totally, 8 studies were included. The present study showed that there was a significant higher relapse-free survival rate in rituximab group than that in the other agents group. Compared with other agents, rituximab did not significantly improve the complete and overall remission rate, serum albumin levels. Rituximab also did not decrease the serum creatinine, urinary protein, and serum cholesterol levels. However, compared with other agents, the adult patients had a higher serum cholesterol levels after treatment with rituximab.Rituximab promised to be a new agent in the treatment of refractory NS; it also could be used as an alternative to conventional immunosuppressive drugs-dependent or drugs-resistant. However, more high-quality, large sample, and multicenter randomized controlled trials are needed to further confirm the efficacy of rituximab in treatment of refractory NS.
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29
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Fiorentino M, Tondolo F, Bruno F, Infante B, Grandaliano G, Gesualdo L, Manno C. Treatment with rituximab in idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Clin Kidney J 2016; 9:788-793. [PMID: 27994855 PMCID: PMC5162414 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfw091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rituximab represents a valid therapeutic option to induce remission in patients with primary glomerulonephritis. Despite several studies proving its efficacy in improving outcomes in patients with membranous nephropathy (MN), its role in therapeutic protocols is not yet defined. METHODS We studied 38 patients with idiopathic MN treated with rituximab (in 13 patients as first-line therapy, in the remaining 25 after conventional immunosuppressive therapy). The patients were analyzed for a 15-month median (interquartile range 7.7-30.2) follow-up, with serial monitoring of 24-h proteinuria, renal function and circulating CD19+ B cells. RESULTS The percentages of patients who achieved complete remission, partial remission and the composite endpoint (complete or partial remission) were 39.5% (15 patients), 36.8% (14 patients) and 76.3% (29 patients), respectively. The 24-h proteinuria was reduced significantly during the entire period of follow-up (from a baseline value of 6.1 to 0.9 g/day in the last visit; P < 0.01), while albuminemia increased constantly (from a baseline value of 2.6 to 3.5 g/dL in the last observation; P < 0.01). Renal function did not significantly change during the observation period. Circulating CD19+ B cells were reduced significantly from the baseline value to the 24-month value (P < 0.01); data about anti-phospholipase A2 receptor antibodies were available in 14 patients, 10 of which experienced a decreasing trend after treatment. No significant adverse events were described during and after infusions. CONCLUSIONS The present study confirmed that treatment with rituximab was remarkably safe and allowed for a large percentage of complete or partial remissions in patients with MN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Fiorentino
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Francesco Tondolo
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Francesca Bruno
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Barbara Infante
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grandaliano
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Loreto Gesualdo
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Carlo Manno
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy
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Cravedi P. Rituximab in Membranous Nephropathy: Not All Studies Are Created Equal. Nephron Clin Pract 2016; 135:46-50. [PMID: 27676651 DOI: 10.1159/000450659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Many prospective studies and a recent randomized controlled trial have shown that the B-cell-depleting monoclonal antibody, rituximab, safely promotes the remission of nephrotic syndrome in approximately 65% of patients with membranous nephropathy (MN). Mechanistic studies have indicated that rituximab-induced proteinuria reduction is associated with clearance of anti-podocyte antigens phospholipase 2 receptor autoantibodies and subepithelial immune complexes, the hallmarks of the disease. A recently published study reported results which, at first sight, looked less favorable and implied that, due to a publication bias against negative results, the efficacy of rituximab in MN might be overestimated. Since patients received only one or 2 rituximab administrations, the authors suggest that when rituximab is used, higher doses and longer treatments should be considered. In this study, we highlight limitations of the study and warn against an oversimplified interpretation of the data. Though information on the optimal dose of rituximab to use in MN is still limited, available data from studies with predefined rituximab administration protocols collectively support the concept of titrating rituximab to the number of circulating B-cells that are invariably depleted after the first or second administration. Additional doses may increase the risk of adverse effects and related costs without augmenting efficacy. Importantly, underpowered studies with inconclusive results should not be confused with negative studies formally proving a neutral effect of a treatment. Until data from ad hoc designed clinical trials are available, the B-cell-driven protocol should be the preferred regimen, since it is similarly effective, but safer and more cost effective than other protocols employing multiple rituximab administrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Cravedi
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, N.Y., USA
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Circulating (CD3(-)CD19(+)CD20(-)IgD(-)CD27(high)CD38(high)) Plasmablasts: A Promising Cellular Biomarker for Immune Activity for Anti-PLA2R1 Related Membranous Nephropathy? Mediators Inflamm 2016; 2016:7651024. [PMID: 27493452 PMCID: PMC4963584 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7651024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a kidney specific autoimmune disease mainly mediated by anti-phospholipase A2 receptor 1 autoantibody (PLA2R1 Ab). The adequate assessment of chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, rituximab (RTX), efficacy is still needed to improve clinical outcome of patient with MN. We evaluated the modification of plasmablasts (CD3−CD19+CD20−IgD−CD27highCD38high), a useful biomarker of RTX response in other autoimmune diseases, and memory (CD3−CD19+CD20+IgD−CD27+CD38−) and naive (CD3−CD19+CD20+IgD+CD27−CD38low) B cells by fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis in PLA2R1 related MN in one patient during the 4 years of follow-up after RTX. RTX induced complete disappearance of CD19+ B cells, plasmablasts, and memory B cells as soon as day 15. Despite severe CD19+ lymphopenia, plasmablasts and memory B cells reemerged early before naive B cells (days 45, 90, and 120, resp.). During the follow-up, plasmablasts decreased more rapidly than memory B cells but still remained elevated as compared to day 0 of RTX. Concomitantly, anti-PLA2R1 Ab increased progressively. Our single case report suggests that, besides monitoring of serum anti-PLA2R1 Ab level, enumeration of circulating plasmablasts and memory B cells represents an attractive and complementary tool to assess immunological activity and efficacy of RTX induced B cells depletion in anti-PLA2R1 Ab related MN.
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Waldman M, Beck LH, Braun M, Wilkins K, Balow JE, Austin HA. Membranous nephropathy: Pilot study of a novel regimen combining cyclosporine and Rituximab. Kidney Int Rep 2016; 1:73-84. [PMID: 27942609 PMCID: PMC5138549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is broad consensus that high grade basal proteinuria and failure to achieve remission of proteinuria are key determinants of adverse renal prognosis in patients with primary membranous nephropathy. Based on the fact that current regimens are not ideal due to short and long-term toxicity and propensity to relapse after treatment withdrawal, we developed a treatment protocol based on a novel combination of rituximab and cyclosporine which targets both the B and T cell limbs of the immune system. Herein, we report pilot study data on proteinuria, changes in autoantibody levels and renal function that offer a potentially effective new approach to treatment of severe membranous nephropathy. METHODS Thirteen high-risk patients defined by sustained high-grade proteinuria (mean 10.8 g/d) received combination induction therapy with rituximab plus cyclosporine for 6 months, followed by a second cycle of rituximab and tapering of cyclosporine during an 18 month maintenance phase. RESULTS Mean proteinuria decreased by 65% at 3 months and by 80% at 6 months. Combined complete or partial remission was achieved in 92% of patients by 9 months; 54% achieved complete remission at 12 months. Two patients relapsed during the trial. All patients with autoantibodies to PLA2R achieved antibody depletion. Renal function stabilized. The regimen was well tolerated. DISCUSSION We report these encouraging preliminary results for their potential value to other investigators needing prospectively collected data to inform the design and power calculations of future randomized clinical trials. Such trials will be needed to formally compare this novel regimen to current therapies for membranous nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meryl Waldman
- Kidney Disease Section, Kidney Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (NIH)
| | - Laurence H Beck
- Department of Medicine, Section of Nephrology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Michelle Braun
- Kidney Disease Section, Kidney Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (NIH)
| | | | - James E Balow
- Kidney Disease Section, Kidney Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (NIH)
| | - Howard A Austin
- Kidney Disease Section, Kidney Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (NIH)
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New insights into immune mechanisms underlying response to Rituximab in patients with membranous nephropathy: A prospective study and a review of the literature. Autoimmun Rev 2016; 15:529-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2016.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Tran TH, J. Hughes G, Greenfeld C, Pham JT. Overview of Current and Alternative Therapies for Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy. Pharmacotherapy 2015; 35:396-411. [DOI: 10.1002/phar.1575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tran H. Tran
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences; St. John's University; Queens New York
- NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center; New York New York
| | - Gregory J. Hughes
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences; St. John's University; Queens New York
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Ruggenenti P, Debiec H, Ruggiero B, Chianca A, Pellé T, Gaspari F, Suardi F, Gagliardini E, Orisio S, Benigni A, Ronco P, Remuzzi G. Anti-Phospholipase A2 Receptor Antibody Titer Predicts Post-Rituximab Outcome of Membranous Nephropathy. J Am Soc Nephrol 2015; 26:2545-58. [PMID: 25804280 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2014070640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Rituximab induces nephrotic syndrome (NS) remission in two-thirds of patients with primary membranous nephropathy (MN), even after other treatments have failed. To assess the relationships among treatment effect, circulating nephritogenic anti-phospholipase A2 receptor (anti-PLA2R) autoantibodies and genetic polymorphisms predisposing to antibody production we serially monitored 24-hour proteinuria and antibody titer in patients with primary MN and long-lasting NS consenting to rituximab (375 mg/m(2)) therapy and genetic analyses. Over a median (range) follow-up of 30.8 (6.0-145.4) months, 84 of 132 rituximab-treated patients achieved complete or partial NS remission (primary end point), and 25 relapsed after remission. Outcomes of patients with or without detectable anti-PLA2R antibodies at baseline were similar. Among the 81 patients with antibodies, lower anti-PLA2R antibody titer at baseline (P=0.001) and full antibody depletion 6 months post-rituximab (hazard ratio [HR], 7.90; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 2.54 to 24.60; P<0.001) strongly predicted remission. All 25 complete remissions were preceded by complete anti-PLA2R antibody depletion. On average, 50% anti-PLA2R titer reduction preceded equivalent proteinuria reduction by 10 months. Re-emergence of circulating antibodies predicted disease relapse (HR, 6.54; 95% CI, 1.57 to 27.40; P=0.01), whereas initial complete remission protected from the event (HR, 6.63; 95% CI, 2.37 to 18.53; P<0.001). Eighteen patients achieved persistent antibody depletion and complete remission and never relapsed. Outcome was independent of PLA2R1 and HLA-DQA1 polymorphisms and of previous immunosuppressive treatment. Therefore, assessing circulating anti-PLA2R autoantibodies and proteinuria may help in monitoring disease activity and guiding personalized rituximab therapy in nephrotic patients with primary MN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Ruggenenti
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, and Unit of Nephrology, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Hanna Debiec
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche UMR_S1155, Paris, France; Sorbonne Universités, Universitè Pierre and Marie Curie University, Paris 06, Paris, France; and
| | | | | | - Timothee Pellé
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche UMR_S1155, Paris, France; Sorbonne Universités, Universitè Pierre and Marie Curie University, Paris 06, Paris, France; and
| | - Flavio Gaspari
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, and
| | - Flavio Suardi
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, and
| | | | - Silvia Orisio
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, and
| | - Ariela Benigni
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, and
| | - Pierre Ronco
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche UMR_S1155, Paris, France; Sorbonne Universités, Universitè Pierre and Marie Curie University, Paris 06, Paris, France; and Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Giuseppe Remuzzi
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, and Unit of Nephrology, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy;
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Zhao Z, Liao G, Li Y, Zhou S, Zou H. The efficacy and safety of rituximab in treating childhood refractory nephrotic syndrome: a meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2015; 5:8219. [PMID: 25645999 PMCID: PMC4314653 DOI: 10.1038/srep08219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Rituximab is considered to be a promising drug for treating childhood refractory nephrotic syndrome. However, the efficacy and safety of rituximab in treating childhood refractory nephrotic syndrome remain inconclusive. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of rituximab treatment compared with other immunosuppressive agents in children with refractory nephrotic syndrome. Three randomized controlled trials and two comparative control studies were included in our analysis. The included studies were of moderately high quality. Compared with other immunotherapies, rituximab therapy significantly improved relapse-free survival (hazard ratio = 0.49, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.26–0.92, P = 0.03). Rituximab also achieved a higher rate of complete remission (risk ratio,1.62; 95% CI, 0.92 to 2.84, P = 0.09) and reduced the occurrence of proteinuria (mean difference = −0.25, 95% CI = −0.29 to −0.21, P < 0.00001); however, a more targeted rituximab treatment did not significantly increase serum albumin levels and did not significantly reduce adverse events. Rituximab might be a promising treatment for childhood refractory nephrotic syndrome; however, the long-term effects and cost-effectiveness of rituximab treatment were not fully assessed, and there were limited studies that evaluated the clinical benefits of a concurrent infusion of rituximab plus a steroid compared with an infusion of rituximab only. Additional studies are required to address these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Institution of Urology and Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Guixiang Liao
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1838 North Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yongqiang Li
- Department of Nephrology, Institution of Urology and Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Shulu Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, Institution of Urology and Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Hequn Zou
- Department of Nephrology, Institution of Urology and Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
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Évaluation d’une stratégie standardisée de prise en charge de la glomérulonéphrite extramembraneuse idiopathique au sein d’un réseau de santé en Lorraine (Néphrolor). Nephrol Ther 2015; 11:16-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nephro.2014.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2013] [Revised: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Cravedi P, Remuzzi G, Ruggenenti P. Rituximab in primary membranous nephropathy: first-line therapy, why not? Nephron Clin Pract 2014; 128:261-9. [PMID: 25427622 DOI: 10.1159/000368589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The ideal treatment of patients with primary membranous nephropathy (MN) and persistent nephrotic syndrome (NS) is still a matter of debate. This is a major issue since these patients may progress to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in 5-10 years. Steroids, alkylating agents, and calcineurin inhibitors have been suggested to achieve NS remission and prevent ESKD in this population. Treatment benefits, however, are uncertain and are often offset by serious adverse events (SAEs). Evidence that B cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the disease, both as precursors of autoantibody-producing cells and as antigen-presenting cells, provided the background for explorative studies testing the role of B cell-depletion therapy with the monoclonal antibody rituximab. This approach aimed at selectively inhibiting disease mechanisms without the devastating consequences of unspecific immunosuppression. Finding that rituximab safely ameliorated NS in 8 patients with primary MN fueled a series of observational studies that uniformly confirmed the safety/efficacy profile of rituximab in this context. Although head-to-head comparisons in randomized clinical trials are missing, comparative analyses between series of homogeneous patient cohorts clearly show at least similar efficacy of rituximab as compared to steroid plus alkylating agents. Moreover, data confirm the dramatically superior safety profile of rituximab that actually appears to be associated with a rate of SAEs even lower than that observed with conservative therapy. Rituximab is also effective in patients resistant to other treatments and its cost-effectiveness is further increased when treatment is titrated to circulating B cells. Recently identified pathogenic antibodies against the M type phospholipase A2 receptor will likely provide a novel tool to monitor disease activity and drive rituximab therapy, at least in a subset of patients. Newly developed anti-CD20 antibodies could represent a valuable option for those who fail rituximab therapy. Steroids, alkylating agents, and calcineurin inhibitors should likely be abandoned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Cravedi
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, N.Y., USA
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Marasà M, Cravedi P, Ruggiero B, Ruggenenti P. Refractory focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in the adult: complete and sustained remissions of two episodes of nephrotic syndrome after a single dose of rituximab. BMJ Case Rep 2014; 2014:bcr-2014-205507. [PMID: 25155494 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2014-205507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Rituximab therapy may achieve remission of proteinuria in children or adolescents with refractory focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), but its effectiveness in adults is uncertain. We describe the case of a 22-year-old Caucasian woman with refractory FSGS that achieved complete and sustained remission of nephrotic syndrome (NS) with one single 375 mg/m(2) rituximab infusion. At 4 months after complete circulating B-cell depletion, proteinuria declined from 4.5 to 0.27 g/24 h and serum albumin normalised. Rituximab was well tolerated and allowed complete withdrawal of previous immunosuppression with steroids and azathioprine. The patient was in sustained remission up to month 32, when she experienced a relapse. A second infusion of rituximab (375 mg/m(2)) achieved prompt proteinuria reduction with no additional immunosuppressants. At 48 months after the initial treatment, this patient is in complete remission without any immunosuppression. This case suggests that rituximab, even a single dose, may safely promote NS remission in adults with refractory FSGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Marasà
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri," Clinical Research Center for Rare Diseases "Aldo e Cele Daccò", Bergamo, Italy
| | - Paolo Cravedi
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Barbara Ruggiero
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri," Clinical Research Center for Rare Diseases "Aldo e Cele Daccò", Bergamo, Italy
| | - Piero Ruggenenti
- IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri," Clinical Research Center for Rare Diseases "Aldo e Cele Daccò", Bergamo, Italy Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
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Abstract
Membranous nephropathy is characterized by immune complex deposits on the outer side of the glomerular basement membrane. Activation of complement and of oxidation lead to basement membrane lesions. The most frequent form is idiopathic. At 5 and 10 years, renal survival is around 90 and 65% respectively. A prognostic model based on proteinuria, level and duration, progression of renal failure in a few months can refine prognosis. The urinary excretion of C5b-9, β2 and α1 microglobuline and IgG are strong predictors of outcome. Symptomatic treatment is based on anticoagulation in case of nephrotic syndrome, angiotensin conversion enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers and statins. Immunosuppressive therapy should be discussed for patients having a high risk of progression. Corticoids alone has no indication. Treatment should include a simultaneous association or more often alternating corticoids and alkylant agent for a minimum of 6 months. Adrenocorticoid stimulating hormone and steroids plus mycophenolate mofetil may be equally effective. Steroids plus alkylant decrease the risk of end stage renal failure. Cyclosporine and tacrolimus decrease proteinuria but are associated with a high risk of recurrence at time of withdrawal and are nephrotoxic. Rituximab evaluated on open studies needs further evaluations to define its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucile Mercadal
- Service de néphrologie, groupe hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, 83, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France.
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Tanna A, Tam FWK, Pusey CD. B-cell-targeted therapy in adult glomerulonephritis. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2013; 13:1691-706. [PMID: 24188581 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2013.851191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There are many mechanisms through which B lymphocytes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of glomerulonephritis. There are a number of trials and clinical studies in glomerulonephritis involving depletion of CD20(+) B lymphocytes using rituximab. Newer anti-CD20 agents are currently under evaluation, as are drugs targeting alternative B-cell targets such as B lymphocyte stimulator. Such selective, targeted B-cell therapies, if shown to be effective, may be of value in minimising toxicity from more conventional agents. AREAS COVERED This article reviews the role of B cells as a target for therapy in adult renal disease resulting from primary glomerulonephritis and that occurring secondary to systemic disease. It will not address intracellular signalling or co-stimulatory pathways as therapeutic targets. EXPERT OPINION There are indications for B-cell targeted therapies in a number of adult glomerulonephritides, with varying degrees of evidence. Further understanding of the mechanisms of B-cell depletion and repletion, and interplay with B-cell survival factors, is necessary in order to identify patients who will respond favourably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anisha Tanna
- Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Training Fellow, Imperial College London, Department of Medicine, Renal and Vascular Inflammation Section , Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN , UK
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Manenti L, Gnappi E, Vaglio A, Allegri L, Noris M, Bresin E, Pilato FP, Valoti E, Pasquali S, Buzio C. Atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome with underlying glomerulopathies. A case series and a review of the literature. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2013; 28:2246-59. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gft220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Brennan DC, Glassock RJ, Bleyer AJ. American Society of Nephrology Quiz and Questionnaire 2012: Transplantation. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2013; 8:1267-72. [PMID: 23539230 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.00430113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Presentation of the Nephrology Quiz and Questionnaire has become an annual tradition at the meetings of the American Society of Nephrology. It is a very popular session, as judged by consistently large attendance. Members of the audience test their knowledge and judgment on a series of case-oriented questions prepared and discussed by experts. They can also compare their answers in real time, using audience response devices, to those of program directors of nephrology training programs in the United States, acquired through an Internet-based questionnaire. Topics presented here include fluid and electrolyte disorders, transplantation, and ESRD and dialysis. Cases representing each of these categories, along with single-best-answer questions, were prepared by a panel of experts (Drs. Palmer, Fervenza, Brennan, and Mehrotra, respectively). The correct and incorrect answers were briefly discussed after the audience responses, and the results of the questionnaire were displayed. This article recapitulates the session and reproduces its educational value for a larger audience--that of the readers of the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Have fun.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Brennan
- Renal Division, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63110-1010, USA.
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Howman A, Chapman TL, Langdon MM, Ferguson C, Adu D, Feehally J, Gaskin GJ, Jayne DRW, O'Donoghue D, Boulton-Jones M, Mathieson PW. Immunosuppression for progressive membranous nephropathy: a UK randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2013; 381:744-51. [PMID: 23312808 PMCID: PMC3590447 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(12)61566-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Membranous nephropathy leads to end-stage renal disease in more than 20% of patients. Although immunosuppressive therapy benefits some patients, trial evidence for the subset of patients with declining renal function is not available. We aimed to assess whether immunosuppression preserves renal function in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy with declining renal function. METHODS This randomised controlled trial was undertaken in 37 renal units across the UK. We recruited patients (18-75 years) with biopsy-proven idiopathic membranous nephropathy, a plasma creatinine concentration of less than 300 μmol/L, and at least a 20% decline in excretory renal function measured in the 2 years before study entry, based on at least three measurements over a period of 3 months or longer. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1:1) by a random number table to receive supportive treatment only, supportive treatment plus 6 months of alternating cycles of prednisolone and chlorambucil, or supportive treatment plus 12 months of ciclosporin. The primary outcome was a further 20% decline in renal function from baseline, analysed by intention to treat. The trial is registered as an International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial, number 99959692. FINDINGS We randomly assigned 108 patients, 33 of whom received prednisolone and chlorambucil, 37 ciclosporin, and 38 supportive therapy alone. Two patients (one who received ciclosporin and one who received supportive therapy) were ineligible, so were not included in the intention-to-treat analysis, and 45 patients deviated from protocol before study end, mostly as a result of minor dose adjustments. Follow up was until primary endpoint or for minimum of 3 years if primary endpoint was not reached. Risk of further 20% decline in renal function was significantly lower in the prednisolone and chlorambucil group than in the supportive care group (19 [58%] of 33 patients reached endpoint vs 31 [84%] of 37, hazard ratio [HR] 0·44 [95% CI 0·24-0·78]; p=0·0042); risk did not differ between the ciclosporin (29 [81%] of 36) and supportive treatment only groups (HR 1·17 [0·70-1·95]; p=0·54), but did differ significantly across all three groups (p=0·003). Serious adverse events were frequent in all three groups but were higher in the prednisolone and chlorambucil group than in the supportive care only group (56 events vs 24 events; p=0·048). INTERPRETATION For the subset of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy and deteriorating excretory renal function, 6 months' therapy with prednisolone and chlorambucil is the treatment approach best supported by our evidence. Ciclosporin should be avoided in this subset. FUNDING Medical Research Council, Novartis, Renal Association, Kidney Research UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Howman
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | | | - Dwomoa Adu
- Renal Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - John Feehally
- Renal Unit, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK
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Abstract
Rituximab offers an alternative to current immunosuppressive therapies for difficult-to-treat nephrotic syndrome. The best outcomes are seen in patients with steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome who have failed to respond to multiple therapies. By contrast, the benefits of rituximab therapy are limited in patients with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome, particularly those with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Therapy with plasma exchange and one or two doses of rituximab has shown success in patients with recurrent FSGS. Young patients and those with normal serum albumin at recurrence of nephrotic syndrome are most likely to respond to rituximab therapy. A substantial proportion of rituximab-treated patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy show complete or partial remission of proteinuria, and reduced levels of phospholipase A(2) receptor autoantibodies, which are implicated in the pathogenesis of this disorder. Successful rituximab therapy induces prolonged remission and enables discontinuation of other medications without substantially increasing the risk of infections and other serious adverse events. However, the available evidence of efficacy of rituximab therapy is derived chiefly from small case series and requires confirmation in prospective, randomized, controlled studies that define the indications for use and predictors of response to this therapy.
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Appel GB, Appel AS. New diagnostic tests and new therapies for glomerular diseases. Blood Purif 2013; 35:81-5. [PMID: 23343551 DOI: 10.1159/000345185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There has recently been considerable progress in our understanding of the pathology and mechanisms of a number of primary glomerulopathies. However, without parallel advancement in both our diagnostic skills and treatment methods, such advances cannot be translated into clinical progress. Fortunately, a number of new promising diagnostic tests are being evaluated in patients with a variety of primary glomerulopathies including focal segmental glomerulosclerosis membranous nephropathy, IgA nephropathy, and C3 glomerulopathies. Likewise, a number of new therapeutic interventions are available to treat these entities, including the pituitary hormone ACTH, the monoclonal antibody rituximab, and the monoclonal blocker of the fifth component of complement, eculizumab. All three are already FDA-approved for at least one glomerular disease. This article will discuss these newer diagnostic tests and therapies as well as their potential roles in patients with glomerular diseases and where they fit in with the rest of our therapeutic armamentarium in treating patients with glomerular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald B Appel
- Glomerular Kidney Disease Center, Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Medical Center, and College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
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Ardalan M. Triggers, bullets and targets, puzzle of membranous nephropathy. Nephrourol Mon 2012; 4:599-602. [PMID: 23573498 PMCID: PMC3614303 DOI: 10.5812/numonthly.2330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2011] [Revised: 10/13/2011] [Accepted: 10/25/2011] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy (MN) is a common cause of adult nephrotic syndrome. Recently, M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2-R) has been discovered as the main podocyte antigen in the pathogenesis of idiopathic MN. Materials and Methods In this mini review, the author searched English-language MEDLINE for the terms “membranous nephropathy”, “rituximab”, and “phospholipase A2 receptor” up to October 2011. Results In support of its earlier discovery, reports from China and Europe confirmed the major pathogenic role of non-complement fixing IgG4 antibody against PLA2-R in the pathogenesis of idiopathic MN. Antibodies against aldose reductase (AR) and manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2 ), and sub-epithelial deposition of cationic bovine serum albumin (BSA) are also reported in rare occasions. It seems that Rituximab is a good therapeutic choice for those patients who need immunosuppressive therapy. Conclusions Great discoveries in the diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic MN have been performed but pathogenic mechanism and triggers for anti-PLA2-R production are still unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza Ardalan
- Nephrology Department, Tabriz University of Medical sciences, Tabriz, IR Iran
- Mario NegriInstitute of Pharmacological Research, Bergamo, Italy
- Corresponding author: Mohammadreza Ardalan, 1) Nephrology Department, Tabriz University of Medical sciences, Tabriz, IR Iran. 2) Mario NegriInstitute of Pharmacological Research, Bergamo, Italy. Tel.: +98-4113344339, Fax: +98-4113344280, E-mail:
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Abstract
Exciting progress recently has been made in our understanding of idiopathic membranous nephropathy, as well as treatment of this disease. Here, we review important advances regarding the pathogenesis of membranous nephropathy. We will also review the current approach to treatment and its limitations and will highlight new therapies that are currently being explored for this disease including Rituximab, mycophenolate mofetil, and adrenocorticotropic hormone, with an emphasis on results of the most recent clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meryl Waldman
- Kidney Disease Section, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Primary membranous nephropathy is a common glomerular disease characterized by sub-epithelial immune deposits that has become the prototype of an autoimmune glomerular disease. The purpose of this review is to highlight recent advances regarding the pathogenesis of membranous nephropathy as well as potential new therapies. RECENT FINDINGS The discovery of two major podocyte antigens, neutral endopeptidase (NEP), involved in rare cases of neonatal membranous nephropathy, and the M-type phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R1), the first antigen discovered in adults, have been major 'breakthroughs' in our understanding of the pathogenesis of human membranous nephropathy. Anti-PLA2R antibodies appear to predict activity of the disease as well as response to therapy. Pediatric and adult cases of membranous nephropathy occurring in the presence of circulating cationic bovine serum album (BSA) and anti-BSA antibodies have also been described, raising the possibility that food antigens may be involved in the development of membranous nephropathy. Moreover, the results of genetic susceptibility have become available. Exciting progress has also been made in the treatment of this disease including therapy with adrenocorticotropic hormone and rituximab. SUMMARY Understanding disease pathogenesis is crucial in guiding patient evaluation and designing appropriate therapy. Recent discoveries have helped to elucidate the pathophysiology of membranous nephropathy and may facilitate a more patient-specific treatment approach in these patients.
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