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Cieplińska K, Niedziela E, Kowalska A. Immunological Processes in the Orbit and Indications for Current and Potential Drug Targets. J Clin Med 2023; 13:72. [PMID: 38202079 PMCID: PMC10780108 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease (GD). Similar to GD, TED is caused by an autoimmune response. TED is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder of the orbit and periorbital tissues, characterized by upper eyelid retraction, swelling, redness, conjunctivitis, and bulging eyes. The pathophysiology of TED is complex, with the infiltration of activated T lymphocytes and activation of orbital fibroblasts (OFs) and autoantibodies against the common autoantigen of thyroid and orbital tissues. Better understanding of the multifactorial pathogenesis of TED contributes to the development of more effective therapies. In this review, we present current and potential drug targets. The ideal treatment should slow progression of the disease with as little interference with patient immunity as possible. In the future, TED treatment will target the immune mechanism involved in the disease and will be based on a strategy of restoring tolerance to autoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emilia Niedziela
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, 25-317 Kielce, Poland; (E.N.); (A.K.)
- Department of Endocrinology, Holy Cross Cancer Center, 25-734 Kielce, Poland
| | - Aldona Kowalska
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, 25-317 Kielce, Poland; (E.N.); (A.K.)
- Department of Endocrinology, Holy Cross Cancer Center, 25-734 Kielce, Poland
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Zhang W, Yuan X, Wang Z, Xu J, Ye S, Jiang P, Du X, Liu F, Lin F, Zhang R, Ma L, Li C. Study on the Treatment of ITP Mice with IVIG Sourced from Distinct Sex-Special Plasma (DSP-IVIG). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15993. [PMID: 37958975 PMCID: PMC10648144 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a first-line drug prepared from human plasma for the treatment of autoimmune diseases (AIDs), especially immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Significant differences exist in protein types and expression levels between male and female plasma, and the prevalence of autoimmune diseases varies between sexes. The present study seeks to explore potential variations in IVIG sourced from distinct sex-specific plasma (DSP-IVIG), including IVIG sourced from female plasma (F-IVIG), IVIG sourced from male plasma (M-IVIG), and IVIG sourced from a blend of male and female plasma (Mix-IVIG). To address this question, we used an ITP mouse model and a monocyte-macrophage inflammation model treated with DSP IVIG. The analysis of proteomics in mice suggested that the pathogenesis and treatment of ITP may involve FcγRs mediated phagocytosis, apoptosis, Th17, cytokines, chemokines, and more. Key indicators, including the mouse spleen index, CD16+ macrophages, M1, M2, IL-6, IL-27, and IL-13, all indicated that the efficacy in improving ITP was highest for M-IVIG. Subsequent cell experiments revealed that M-IVIG exhibited a more potent ability to inhibit monocyte phagocytosis. It induced more necrotic M2 cells and fewer viable M2, resulting in weaker M2 phagocytosis. M-IVIG also demonstrated superiority in the downregulation of surface makers CD36, CD68, and CD16 on M1 macrophages, a weaker capacity to activate complement, and a stronger binding ability to FcγRs on the THP-1 surface. In summary, DSP-IVIG effectively mitigated inflammation in ITP mice and monocytes and macrophages. However, M-IVIG exhibited advantages in improving the spleen index, regulating the number and typing of M1 and M2 macrophages, and inhibiting macrophage-mediated inflammation compared to F-IVIG and Mix-IVIG.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Li Ma
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu 610052, China; (W.Z.); (Z.W.); (J.X.); (S.Y.); (P.J.); (X.D.); (F.L.); (F.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Changqing Li
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu 610052, China; (W.Z.); (Z.W.); (J.X.); (S.Y.); (P.J.); (X.D.); (F.L.); (F.L.); (R.Z.)
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Xavier NF, Lucena DT, Cruz AAV. Monoclonal Antibodies for the Treatment of Graves Orbitopathy: Precision Medicine? Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 39:307-315. [PMID: 36727923 DOI: 10.1097/iop.0000000000002315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To summarize the development, nomenclature, and rationale of the reported use of monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) in Graves Orbitopathy (GO) and to undertake a systematic review of the management of GO with Mabs. METHODS The Pubmed and Embase databases and the Federal Brazilian searching site (Periódicos-CAPES) were screened. The authors searched all the keywords "monoclonal antibodies," "adalimumab," "belimumab," "infliximab," "rituximab," "teprotumumab," and "tocilizumab" combined with the terms "Graves Orbitopathy," "Graves eye disease" and "thyroid eye disease." All the articles published in English, French, and Spanish from 2000 to May 2022 were screened. Only publications with quantitative data on the activity of orbitopathy, proptosis, or both were included. RESULTS Seventy-six articles of the 954 screened records met the inclusion criteria. Seven Mabs were described for treating GO. The three most reported Mabs were Rituximab, Tocilizumab, and Teprotumumab. Only eight randomized clinical trials compared the effect of these three Mabs and Belimumab with the effect of steroids or placebos. Adalimumab, Infliximab, and K1-70 only appeared in a few case series and case reports. Frequent mild-to-moderate and few major side effects occurred with the three most used Mabs. Relapse rates ranged from 7.4% for Tocilizumab to at least 29.4% for Teprotumumab. No randomized clinical trials compared Mabs head-to-head. CONCLUSION Considering the lack of head-to-head comparisons between Mabs, the relapse rate, the possibility of severe collateral effects, and the cost of Mabs, it is not clear which Mab is the safest and most useful to treat GO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naiara F Xavier
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto - University of São Paulo, Brasil
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Hu Y, Chen J, Lin K, Yu X. Efficacy and Safety of intravenous monoclonal antibodies in patients with moderate-to-severe active Graves'ophthalmopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1160936. [PMID: 37288301 PMCID: PMC10242093 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1160936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds The effects of various treatments on Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) have been studied. As monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been proposed for the treatment of moderate to severe GO, direct comparisons between different mAbs are lacking.We therefore conducted this meta-analysis to objectively compare the efficacy and safety of intravenous mAbs. Methods To identify eligible trials, references published before September 2022 were electronically searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Pubmed, Embase,Cochrane Library, CBM, CNKI,Wan-Fang and ICTRP databases.The Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool were used to assess the risk of bias of the original studies.The primary and secondary outcomes were the response and inactivation rates, with the secondary outcomes being the clinical activity score (CAS),the improvement of proptosis and diplopia improvement,and the adverse event rate. Publication bias was evaluated, along with subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Results A total of 12 trials with 448 patients were included. The meta-analysis showed that TCZ (tocilizumab) was most likely to be the best treatment in terms of response according to indirect contrast, followed by TMB (teprotumumab) and RTX (rituximab).TCZ, followed by TMB and RTX, was also most likely to be the best treatment in terms of reducing proptosis. In terms of improving diplopia, TMB was most likely to be the best treatment, followed by TCZ and RTX.TCZ was the highest probability of safety, followed by RTX and TMB. Conclusions Based on the best available evidence,TCZ should be the preferred treatment for moderate to severe GO.In the absence of head-to-head trials,indirect comparisons of treatments are routinely used to estimate the effectiveness of the treatments of interest. In addition,the optimal dose and potential mechanism of action of monoclonal antibodies remain to be established,and it is encouraging that the treatment paradigm for GO may change in the future.This study was designed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for conducting Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)(27). Systematic Review Registration http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023398170.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Hu
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism/Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Rare Disease Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinhua Chen
- Department of General Practice, Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Ken Lin
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Xijie Yu
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism/Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Rare Disease Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Cui X, Wang F, Liu C. A review of TSHR- and IGF-1R-related pathogenesis and treatment of Graves' orbitopathy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1062045. [PMID: 36742308 PMCID: PMC9893276 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1062045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is an organ-specific autoimmune disease, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. There are few review articles on GO research from the perspective of target cells and target antigens. A systematic search of PubMed was performed, focusing mainly on studies published after 2015 that involve the role of target cells, orbital fibroblasts (OFs) and orbital adipocytes (OAs), target antigens, thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), and their corresponding antibodies, TSHR antibodies (TRAbs) and IGF-1R antibodies (IGF-1R Abs), in GO pathogenesis and the potentially effective therapies that target TSHR and IGF-1R. Based on the results, OFs may be derived from bone marrow-derived CD34+ fibrocytes. In addition to CD34+ OFs, CD34- OFs are important in the pathogenesis of GO and may be involved in hyaluronan formation. CD34- OFs expressing Slit2 suppress the phenotype of CD34+ OFs. β-arrestin 1 can be involved in TSHR/IGF-1R crosstalk as a scaffold. Research on TRAbs has gradually shifted to TSAbs, TBAbs and the titre of TRAbs. However, the existence and role of IGF-1R Abs are still unknown and deserve further study. Basic and clinical trials of TSHR-inhibiting therapies are increasing, and TSHR is an expected therapeutic target. Teprotumumab has become the latest second-line treatment for GO. This review aims to effectively describe the pathogenesis of GO from the perspective of target cells and target antigens and provide ideas for its fundamental treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejiao Cui
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Futao Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Changchun Central Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Cong Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Supronik J, Szelachowska M, Kretowski A, Siewko K. Rituximab in the treatment of Graves' orbitopathy: latest updates and perspectives. Endocr Connect 2022; 11:e220303. [PMID: 36219838 PMCID: PMC9716394 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is a potentially sight-threatening and disfiguring, extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease. It often impairs patients' quality of life, causing severe social and psychological sequelae. Intravenous glucocorticosteroids is currently the mainstay of therapy, but the efficacy is often underwhelming and recurrence rate is high. For many years, clinicians have been searching for new methods of treatment. Rituximab (RTX) is a chimeric monoclonal antibody targeted against CD20 which is a surface antigen present on B cells. It is frequently used to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, or various types of vasculitis. Numerous clinical trials employing RTX in the treatment of GO have shown promising results. RTX is currently considered to be a valid second-line treatment option in patients unresponsive to previous interventions or in disease reactivation. This review summarizes the available literature on this topic, including two largest, randomized, controlled studies. Potential benefits, as well as the limitations of RTX therapy, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Supronik
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Szelachowska
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Adam Kretowski
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
- Clinical Research Centre, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Siewko
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
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Recent advances in graves ophthalmopathy medical therapy: a comprehensive literature review. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 43:1437-1449. [PMID: 36272013 PMCID: PMC10113320 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02537-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Graves ophthalmopathy (GO), which occurs in autoimmune thyroid disease, can reduce patients' quality of life due to its impact on visual function, physical appearance, and emotional health. Corticosteroids have been the first-line treatment for GO. More recently, the pathogenesis of GO has made significant progress. Various targeting biological agents and immunosuppressive agents make GO management more promising. Fully understanding GO pathogenesis and precise clinical management are beneficial for the prognosis of patients. Therefore, we conducted a comprehensive review of the medical management of GO and summarized research developments to highlight future research issues.
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Segú-Vergés C, Caño S, Calderón-Gómez E, Bartra H, Sardon T, Kaveri S, Terencio J. Systems biology and artificial intelligence analysis highlights the pleiotropic effect of IVIg therapy in autoimmune diseases with a predominant role on B cells and complement system. Front Immunol 2022; 13:901872. [PMID: 36248801 PMCID: PMC9563374 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.901872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is used as treatment for several autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, but its specific mechanisms are not fully understood. Herein, we aimed to evaluate, using systems biology and artificial intelligence techniques, the differences in the pathophysiological pathways of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that show diverse responses to IVIg treatment. We also intended to determine the targets of IVIg involved in the best treatment response of the evaluated diseases. Our selection and classification of diseases was based on a previously published systematic review, and we performed the disease characterization through manual curation of the literature. Furthermore, we undertook the mechanistic evaluation with artificial neural networks and pathway enrichment analyses. A set of 26 diseases was selected, classified, and compared. Our results indicated that diseases clearly benefiting from IVIg treatment were mainly characterized by deregulated processes in B cells and the complement system. Indeed, our results show that proteins related to B-cell and complement system pathways, which are targeted by IVIg, are involved in the clinical response. In addition, targets related to other immune processes may also play an important role in the IVIg response, supporting its wide range of actions through several mechanisms. Although B-cell responses and complement system have a key role in diseases benefiting from IVIg, protein targets involved in such processes are not necessarily the same in those diseases. Therefore, IVIg appeared to have a pleiotropic effect that may involve the collaborative participation of several proteins. This broad spectrum of targets and 'non-specificity' of IVIg could be key to its efficacy in very different diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Caño
- Grifols Innovation and New Technologies (GIANT) Ltd., Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Helena Bartra
- Health Department, Anaxomics Biotech, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Teresa Sardon
- Health Department, Anaxomics Biotech, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Srini Kaveri
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - José Terencio
- Grifols Innovation and New Technologies (GIANT) Ltd., Dublin, Ireland
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Lun AY, Le Bras M, Scharbarg E, Morcel P, Hadjadj S, Lebranchu P, Drui D. L’orbitopathie basedowienne: diagnostic, épidémiologie et principes de traitement. Rev Med Interne 2022; 43:242-251. [DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Wang Y, Hu H, Chen L, Zhang H, Yang T, Xu X, Chen H. Observation study of using a small dose of rituximab treatment for thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy in seven Chinese patients: One pilot study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1079852. [PMID: 36743915 PMCID: PMC9889535 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1079852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report the efficacy, long-term safety, and tolerability of using a small dose (125 mg/m2 weekly for 4 weeks) of rituximab to treat Chinese patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO). METHODS Seven patients with active moderate-to-severe TAO were prospectively recruited in this study. A small dose of rituximab (125mg/m2 body surface area) was given weekly with a duration of four weeks. Thyroid function, thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb), B cell and T cell subsets, ophthalmological examination, magnetic resonance imaging derived parameters, and adverse reactions were recorded at each visit. RESULTS Seven patients were followed for an average of 224 weeks. B-cell depletion was observed in all patients following rituximab infusion. The clinical activity score (CAS) decreased from 4.86 ± 0.69 to 3.00 ± 0.82 at 5 weeks after treatment (P = 0.033) and remained significantly lower than baseline values at the end of follow-up (P = 0.001). Compared to baseline values, significant decreases in exophthalmos of the right eye, the thickness of extraocular muscles with maximum signal intensity, and the highest signal intensity ratio (SIR) of extraocular muscle to ipsilateral temporal muscle values were observed at the last follow-up (all P < 0.05). Disease progressions or recurrences were not observed during follow-up. Only mild fatigue was observed after the first infusion as a side effect (n = 1). CONCLUSION Small dose of rituximab may be a promising option with adequate safety, tolerability, and long-term efficacy for patients with active moderate-to-severe TAO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyue Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haitao Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoquan Xu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoquan Xu, ; Huanhuan Chen,
| | - Huanhuan Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoquan Xu, ; Huanhuan Chen,
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Cao J, Wang N, Hou S, Qi X, Chen Y, Xiong W. Overview of Graves Ophthalmopathy Literature From 1999 to 2019: Bibliometric Analysis. Interact J Med Res 2021; 10:e24831. [PMID: 34581676 PMCID: PMC8512195 DOI: 10.2196/24831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Research on Graves ophthalmopathy has increased remarkably over the last 2 decades; however, few statistical analyses of the data presented in these publications have been conducted. Objective This study aims to detect and analyze emerging trends and collaboration networks in Graves ophthalmopathy research. Methods Graves ophthalmopathy–related publications from 1999 to 2019 were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection Database. Collected publications were restricted by category (article or review) and language (English). Bibliometric analyses included changes in the annual numbers of publications, journals, authors, countries, institutions, keywords, and references. Results In total, 3051 publications that met the criteria were collected. The number of annual publications has exhibited an increasing trend over the last 20 years. The journal Thyroid ranked first, publishing 183 Graves ophthalmopathy–related studies. There was no evidence of a relationship between impact factor (IF) and the number of publications (P=.69). The author Smith TJ had the largest number of publications on Graves ophthalmopathy (n=83). Of the countries that had published Graves ophthalmopathy–related articles, the United States had the largest number (n=784) and the highest centrality (0.18). Among institutions, the University of Pisa (Italy) contributed the most Graves ophthalmopathy–related articles (n=114). The most recent burst keywords (proliferation, rituximab, and selenium) and references may provide clues on emerging trends in research and clinical practice. Conclusions This bibliometric analysis highlights countries, institutions, and authors who contributed to Graves ophthalmopathy–related publications. Emerging trends in Graves ophthalmopathy research, based on burst keywords and references, may provide clues relevant to clinical practice and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamin Cao
- Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Nuo Wang
- Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shiying Hou
- Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xin Qi
- Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Chen J, Chen G, Sun H. Intravenous rituximab therapy for active Graves' ophthalmopathy: a meta-analysis. Hormones (Athens) 2021; 20:279-286. [PMID: 33783712 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-021-00282-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
AIM The successful treatment of Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) remains a challenge, while the efficacy of rituximab (RTX) is at present controversial. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the potential impact of intravenous RTX therapy in patients with GO. METHODS We performed a search in the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases for relevant studies published before July 2020. The primary outcome was the change of clinical activity score (CAS), and secondary outcomes were the change of proptosis and TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb). A meta-analysis was conducted to calculate the standard mean difference (SMD) for these outcomes by using fixed- or random-effect models. RESULTS Analysis of outcomes in 152 patients collected from 12 published articles was conducted. Compared to baseline value, CAS was significantly decreased at 1, 6, 12, and >12 months after RTX treatment. For proptosis, the results revealed no significant decrease at 1-3, 6, and ≥12 months. Moreover, the pooled analysis employed in this meta-analysis showed no significant difference of TRAb at 1 month, but significant declines were observed at 6 and ≥12 months. CONCLUSION Our results strongly suggest that intravenous RTX treatment has an acute and long-lasting beneficial effect on decreasing both CAS and TRAb. The study also indicates that the effect of RTX on proptosis is limited. There is evidently a need to investigate the mechanism behind RTX ineffectiveness on proptosis and explore other therapeutic regimens for the reduction of proptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- The Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
| | - Gang Chen
- The Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China.
- Department of Endocrinology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Analysis, Fujian Academy of Medical Sciences, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China.
| | - Huilan Sun
- The Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China.
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Shah R, Amador C, Tormanen K, Ghiam S, Saghizadeh M, Arumugaswami V, Kumar A, Kramerov AA, Ljubimov AV. Systemic diseases and the cornea. Exp Eye Res 2021; 204:108455. [PMID: 33485845 PMCID: PMC7946758 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
There is a number of systemic diseases affecting the cornea. These include endocrine disorders (diabetes, Graves' disease, Addison's disease, hyperparathyroidism), infections with viruses (SARS-CoV-2, herpes simplex, varicella zoster, HTLV-1, Epstein-Barr virus) and bacteria (tuberculosis, syphilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), autoimmune and inflammatory diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, lupus erythematosus, gout, atopic and vernal keratoconjunctivitis, multiple sclerosis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis, sarcoidosis, Cogan's syndrome, immunobullous diseases), corneal deposit disorders (Wilson's disease, cystinosis, Fabry disease, Meretoja's syndrome, mucopolysaccharidosis, hyperlipoproteinemia), and genetic disorders (aniridia, Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, Marfan syndrome). Corneal manifestations often provide an insight to underlying systemic diseases and can act as the first indicator of an undiagnosed systemic condition. Routine eye exams can bring attention to potentially life-threatening illnesses. In this review, we provide a fairly detailed overview of the pathologic changes in the cornea described in various systemic diseases and also discuss underlying molecular mechanisms, as well as current and emerging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Shah
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Cynthia Amador
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kati Tormanen
- Center for Neurobiology and Vaccine Development, Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sean Ghiam
- Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mehrnoosh Saghizadeh
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Departments of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Medicine, and Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vaithi Arumugaswami
- Departments of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Medicine, and Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Andrei A Kramerov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alexander V Ljubimov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Departments of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Medicine, and Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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14
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Fallahi P, Ferrari SM, Elia G, Ragusa F, Paparo SR, Patrizio A, Camastra S, Miccoli M, Cavallini G, Benvenga S, Antonelli A. Cytokines as Targets of Novel Therapies for Graves' Ophthalmopathy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:654473. [PMID: 33935970 PMCID: PMC8085526 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.654473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Graves' disease (GD) is an organ-specific autoimmune disorder of the thyroid, which is characterized by circulating TSH-receptor (TSH-R) stimulating antibodies (TSAb), leading to hyperthyroidism. Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is one of GD extra-thyroidal manifestations associated with the presence of TSAb, and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) autoantibodies, that interact with orbital fibroblasts. Cytokines are elevated in autoimmune (i.e., IL-18, IL-6) and non-autoimmune hyperthyroidism (i.e., TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6), and this could be associated with the chronic effects of thyroid hormone increase. A prevalent Th1-immune response (not related to the hyperthyroidism per se, but to the autoimmune process) is reported in the immune-pathogenesis of GD and GO; Th1-chemokines (CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11) and the (C-X-C)R3 receptor are crucial in this process. In patients with active GO, corticosteroids, or intravenous immunoglobulins, decrease inflammation and orbital congestion, and are considered first-line therapies. The more deepened understanding of GO pathophysiology has led to different immune-modulant treatments. Cytokines, TSH-R, and IGF-1R (on the surface of B and T lymphocytes, and fibroblasts), and chemokines implicated in the autoimmune process, are possible targets of novel therapies. Drugs that target cytokines (etanercept, tocilizumab, infliximab, adalimumab) have been tested in GO, with encouraging results. The chimeric monoclonal antibody directed against CD20, RTX, reduces B lymphocytes, cytokines and the released autoantibodies. A multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-masked trial has investigated the human monoclonal blocking antibody directed against IGF-1R, teprotumumab, reporting its effectiveness in GO. In conclusion, large, controlled and randomized studies are needed to evaluate new possible targeted therapies for GO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Giusy Elia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Ragusa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Armando Patrizio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefania Camastra
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mario Miccoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriella Cavallini
- Department of Translational Research of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women’s Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology, and Women’s Endocrine Health, University Hospital, A.O.U. Policlinico Gaetano Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessandro Antonelli,
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15
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Lee ACH, Kahaly GJ. Novel Approaches for Immunosuppression in Graves' Hyperthyroidism and Associated Orbitopathy. Eur Thyroid J 2020; 9:17-30. [PMID: 33511082 PMCID: PMC7802437 DOI: 10.1159/000508789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both Graves' hyperthyroidism (GH) and Graves' orbitopathy (GO) are associated with significant adverse health consequences. All conventional treatment options have limitations regarding efficacy and safety. Most importantly, they do not specifically address the underlying immunological mechanisms. We aim to review the latest development of treatment approaches in these two closely related disorders. SUMMARY Immunotherapies of GH have recently demonstrated clinical efficacy in preliminary studies. They include ATX-GD-59, an antigen-specific immunotherapy which restores immune tolerance to the thyrotropin receptor; iscalimab, an anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody which blocks the CD40-CD154 costimulatory pathway in B-T cell interaction; and K1-70, a thyrotropin receptor-blocking monoclonal antibody. Novel treatment strategies have also become available in GO. Mycophenolate significantly increased the overall response rate combined with standard glucocorticoid (GC) treatment compared to GC monotherapy. Tocilizumab, an anti-interleukin 6 receptor monoclonal antibody, displayed strong anti-inflammatory action in GC-resistant cases. Teprotumumab, an anti-insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor monoclonal antibody, resulted in remarkable improvement in terms of disease activity, proptosis, and diplopia. Further, rituximab appears to be useful in active disease of recent onset without impending dysthyroid optic neuropathy. KEY MESSAGES Therapeutic advances will continue to optimize our management of GH and associated orbitopathy in an effective and safe manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Chun Hong Lee
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Medicine I, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - George J. Kahaly
- Department of Medicine I, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
- *George J. Kahaly, Department of Medicine I, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Langenbeckstraße 1, DE–55131 Mainz (Germany),
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16
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Gaggiano C, Sota J, Gentileschi S, Caggiano V, Grosso S, Tosi GM, Frediani B, Cantarini L, Fabiani C. The current status of biological treatment for uveitis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2020; 16:787-811. [PMID: 32700605 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2020.1798230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Noninfectious uveitis represents one of the leading causes of blindness in developed Countries, compromising patients' quality of life and social functioning. The main treatment goals are the control of ocular inflammation, to avert and treat sight-threatening complications, thus preserving and/or restoring visual function. AREAS COVERED This manuscript deals with systemic therapy with biologic drugs for noninfectious uveitis. An extensive literature search in the MEDLINE database (via PubMed) has been performed up to June 2020. The major classes of biologic molecules employed in ocular inflammatory diseases have been reviewed, focusing on TNF inhibitors, IL-1, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23 inhibitors, interferons, rituximab, and abatacept efficacy and safety. An overview of most recent developments in the field has been provided as well, with reference to the experience with JAK inhibitors and with biosimilar drugs. EXPERT OPINION The development of the concept of targeted therapy and the subsequent introduction of biologic molecules in clinical practice have revolutionized the prognosis of uveitis. The target of a rapid and sustained steroid-free remission of ocular inflammation should be pursued for all patients early in the disease course, in order to have a better chance to improve the final visual outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Gaggiano
- Research Center of Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases and Behçet's Disease, and Rheumatology-Ophthalmology Collaborative Uveitis Center, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pediatrics, Department of Molecular Medicine and Development, University of Siena , Siena, Italy
| | - Jurgen Sota
- Research Center of Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases and Behçet's Disease, and Rheumatology-Ophthalmology Collaborative Uveitis Center, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Gentileschi
- Research Center of Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases and Behçet's Disease, and Rheumatology-Ophthalmology Collaborative Uveitis Center, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy.,Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy
| | - Valeria Caggiano
- Research Center of Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases and Behçet's Disease, and Rheumatology-Ophthalmology Collaborative Uveitis Center, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy
| | - Salvatore Grosso
- Clinical Pediatrics, Department of Molecular Medicine and Development, University of Siena , Siena, Italy
| | - Gian Marco Tosi
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Italy
| | - Bruno Frediani
- Research Center of Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases and Behçet's Disease, and Rheumatology-Ophthalmology Collaborative Uveitis Center, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy.,Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy
| | - Luca Cantarini
- Research Center of Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases and Behçet's Disease, and Rheumatology-Ophthalmology Collaborative Uveitis Center, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy.,Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy
| | - Claudia Fabiani
- Research Center of Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases and Behçet's Disease, and Rheumatology-Ophthalmology Collaborative Uveitis Center, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Siena, Italy.,Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena , Italy
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17
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Antonelli A, Fallahi P, Elia G, Ragusa F, Paparo SR, Ruffilli I, Patrizio A, Gonnella D, Giusti C, Virili C, Centanni M, Shoenfeld Y, Ferrari SM. Graves' disease: Clinical manifestations, immune pathogenesis (cytokines and chemokines) and therapy. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 34:101388. [PMID: 32059832 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2020.101388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Graves' disease (GD) is characterized by thyrotoxicosis, caused by the presence of circulating thyroid stimulating antibodies (TSAb), that are determinant also in the pathogenesis of its extrathyroidal manifestations [Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO), pretibial myxedema]. T helper (Th)1 immune response prevails in the immune-pathogenesis of GD and GO, during the active phase, when Th1 chemokines, and their (C-X-C)R3 receptor, play a key role. In GD, the existing treatments are not ideal for hyperthyroidism (long-term remission with anti-thyroid-drugs only in 50% of patients; while radioiodine and surgery cause hypothyroidism). In GD, antigen-specific therapy has been recently published, with the induction of T cell tolerance via an immunization by TSH-R peptides. In GO, rituximab and drugs targeting cytokines have been evaluated. Furthermore, teprotumumab (a human monoclonal anti-IGF-1R blocking antibody) showed to be very effective in GO patients. Further researches are necessary to identify novel effective therapies targeting GD, or GO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research and of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Giusy Elia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Francesca Ragusa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Ilaria Ruffilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Armando Patrizio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Debora Gonnella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Claudia Giusti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Camilla Virili
- Sapienza University of Rome, 9311, Medicosurgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, C.so della Repubblica 79, Latina, 04100, Italy.
| | - Marco Centanni
- Sapienza University of Rome, 9311, Medicosurgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, C.so della Repubblica 79, Latina, 04100, Italy; ASL Latina, 217138, Endocrinology Unit, Latina, Lazio, Italy.
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Russia.
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18
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Ferrari SM, Fallahi P, Elia G, Ragusa F, Camastra S, Paparo SR, Giusti C, Gonnella D, Ruffilli I, Shoenfeld Y, Antonelli A. Novel therapies for thyroid autoimmune diseases: An update. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 34:101366. [PMID: 31813786 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2019.101366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A Th1 immune-preponderance has been shown in the immunopathogenesis of autoimmune thyroiditis (AT), Graves' disease (GD) and Graves' Ophthalmopathy (GO), in which the Th1-chemokines (CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11), and their (C-X-C)R3 receptor, have a crucial role. Methimazole, and corticosteroids have been shown to modulate these chemokines; several efforts have been done to modulate the autoimmune reaction with other drugs, i.e. PPAR-γ, or -α ligands, or antibodies, or small molecules directed against CXCL10, or CXCR3. Antigen-specific therapy for GD, by inducing T cell tolerance through an immunization with TSH-R peptides, has been published. Drugs targeting cytokines [anti-TNFα (Etanercept), and anti-IL-6 (Tocilizumab)], and RTX (a chimeric monoclonal antibody vs. CD20) have been used in GO, with promising results. Teprotumumab (a human monoclonal anti-IGF-1R blocking antibody) has been investigated in a trial, showing it was very effective in GO patients. Still, more studies are needed for new therapies targeting autoimmune thyroid disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Giusy Elia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Francesca Ragusa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Stefania Camastra
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Claudia Giusti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Debora Gonnella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Ruffilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Russia.
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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