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Advancing Biologic Therapy for Refractory Autoimmune Hepatitis. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 67:4979-5005. [PMID: 35147819 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-021-07378-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Biologic agents may satisfy an unmet clinical need for treatment of refractory autoimmune hepatitis. The goals of this review are to present the types and results of biologic therapy for refractory autoimmune hepatitis, indicate opportunities to improve and expand biologic treatment, and encourage comparative clinical trials. English abstracts were identified in PubMed by multiple search terms. Full-length articles were selected for review, and secondary and tertiary bibliographies were developed. Rituximab (monoclonal antibodies against CD20 on B cells), infliximab (monoclonal antibodies against tumor necrosis factor-alpha), low-dose recombinant interleukin 2 (regulatory T cell promoter), and belimumab (monoclonal antibodies against B cell activating factor) have induced laboratory improvement in small cohorts with refractory autoimmune hepatitis. Ianalumab (monoclonal antibodies against the receptor for B cell activating factor) is in clinical trial. These agents target critical pathogenic pathways, but they may also have serious side effects. Blockade of the B cell activating factor or its receptors may disrupt pivotal B and T cell responses, and recombinant interleukin 2 complexed with certain interleukin 2 antibodies may selectively expand the regulatory T cell population. A proliferation-inducing ligand that enhances T cell proliferation and survival is an unevaluated, potentially pivotal, therapeutic target. Fully human antibodies, expanded target options, improved targeting precision, more effective delivery systems, and biosimilar agents promise to improve efficacy, safety, and accessibility. In conclusion, biologic agents target key pathogenic pathways in autoimmune hepatitis, and early experiences in refractory disease encourage clarification of the preferred target, rigorous clinical trial, and comparative evaluations.
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Chawla S, Jindal AK, Arora K, Tyagi R, Dhaliwal M, Rawat A. T Cell Abnormalities in X-Linked Agammaglobulinaemia: an Updated Review. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2022:10.1007/s12016-022-08949-7. [PMID: 35708830 PMCID: PMC9201264 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-022-08949-7] [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] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
X-linked agammaglobulinaemia (XLA) is a primary immunodeficiency (PID) resulting from a defect in the B cell development. It has conventionally been thought that T cells play a major role in the development and function of the B cell compartment. However, it has also been shown that B cells and T cells undergo bidirectional interactions and B cells also influence the structure and function of the T cell compartment. Patients with XLA offer a unique opportunity to understand the effect of absent B cells on the T cell compartment. In this review, we provide an update on abnormalities in the T cell compartment in patients with XLA. Studies have shown impaired memory T cells, follicular helper T cells, T regulatory cells and T helper 17 in patients with XLA. In addition, these patients have also been reported to have abnormal delayed cell-mediated immune responses and vaccine-specific T cell-mediated immune responses; defective T helper cell polarization and impaired T cell receptor diversity. At present, the clinical significance of these T cell abnormalities has not been studied in detail. However, these abnormalities may result in an increased risk of viral infections, autoimmunity, autoinflammation and possibly chronic lung disease. Abnormal response to SARS-Cov2 vaccine in patients with XLA and prolonged persistence of SARS-Cov2 virus in the respiratory tract of these patients may be related to abnormalities in the T cell compartment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanchi Chawla
- Allergy Immunology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Advanced Paediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Ankur Kumar Jindal
- Allergy Immunology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Advanced Paediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Kanika Arora
- Allergy Immunology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Advanced Paediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Rahul Tyagi
- Allergy Immunology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Advanced Paediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Manpreet Dhaliwal
- Allergy Immunology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Advanced Paediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Amit Rawat
- Allergy Immunology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Advanced Paediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India
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Bounia CA, Liossis SNC. B cell depletion treatment decreases Th17 cells in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Immunol 2021; 233:108877. [PMID: 34740842 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We aimed to evaluate for any possible effects of treatment with rituximab (RTX) on the peripheral Th17 and Treg subpopulations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). PATIENTS AND METHODS We analyzed 16 patients with RA initiating RTX treatment, 11 patients with RA initiating abatacept treatment, 11 patients with RA treated with other medications, 8 patients with other autoimmune rheumatic diseases initiating RTX, and 14 healthy volunteers. Th17 cells (CD4+IL23R+IL17A+) and Treg cells (CD4+CD25hiFoxP3+) were evaluated flow-cytometrically. RESULTS Th17 cells from patients treated with RTX decreased significantly at weeks 8 and 16 (mean ± SEΜ: 3.01% ± 0.54℅ CD4+ cells at week 0 vs. 1.53% ± 0.24℅ at week 8 vs 1.10% ± 0.20℅ at week 16, p = 0.0004). Reductions of Th17 cells were evident in clinical responders (DAS28 score ≤ 3.2), ACPA (+) and RF (-) patients; circulating Tregs remained stable. Th17 and Tregs were not affected by ABA treatment or by changes in disease activity. Tregs, but not Th17 cells, decreased following treatment with RTX in patients with other autoimmune diseases (0.75% ± 0.16% at week 0 vs. 0.43% ± 0.16% at week 8, p = 0.033). CONCLUSION RTX-induced B cell depletion results in a significant reduction of circulating Th17 cell percentages, whereas it has no effect on Tregs of patients with RA. This reduction of Th17 cells was evident particularly in responders to RTX treatment, ACPA+ and RF (-) patients with RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantina A Bounia
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, Rion, Patras, Greece
| | - Stamatis-Nick C Liossis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, Rion, Patras, Greece; Department of Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Rion, Patras, Greece.
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Howlett-Prieto Q, Feng X, Kramer JF, Kramer KJ, Houston TW, Reder AT. Anti-CD20 therapy corrects a CD8 regulatory T cell deficit in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2021; 27:2170-2179. [PMID: 33783270 DOI: 10.1177/13524585211003301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of long-term anti-CD20 B-cell-depleting treatment on regulatory T cell immune subsets that are subnormal in untreated MS patients. METHODS 30 clinically stable MS patients, before and over 38 months of ocrelizumab treatment, were compared to 13 healthy controls, 29 therapy-naïve MS, 9 interferon-β-treated MS, 3 rituximab-treated MS, and 3 rituximab-treated patients with other autoimmune inflammatory diseases. CD8, CD28, CD4, and FOXP3 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was quantitated with flow cytometry. RESULTS CD8+ CD28- regulatory cells rose from one-third of healthy control levels before ocrelizumab treatment (2.68% vs 7.98%), normalized by 12 months (13.5%), and rose to 2.4-fold above healthy controls after 18 months of ocrelizumab therapy (19.0%). CD4+ FOXP3+ regulatory cells were lower in MS than in healthy controls (7.98%) and showed slight long-term decreases with ocrelizumab. CD8+ CD28- and CD4+ FOXP3+ regulatory T cell percentages in IFN-β-treated MS patients were between those of untreated MS and healthy controls. INTERPRETATION Long-term treatment with ocrelizumab markedly enriches CD8+ CD28- regulatory T cells and corrects the low levels seen in MS before treatment, while slightly decreasing CD4+ FOXP3+ regulatory T cells. Homeostatic enrichment of regulatory CD8 T cells provides a mechanism, in addition to B cell depletion, for the benefits of anti-CD20 treatment in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xuan Feng
- Department of Neurology, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John F Kramer
- St Thomas Medical Partners, Neurology, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kevin J Kramer
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Timothy W Houston
- Department of Neurology, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anthony T Reder
- Department of Neurology, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Néel A, Bucchia M, Néel M, Tilly G, Caristan A, Yap M, Rimbert M, Bruneau S, Cadoux M, Agard C, Hourmant M, Godmer P, Brouard S, Bressollette C, Hamidou M, Josien R, Fakhouri F, Degauque N. Dampening of CD8+ T Cell Response by B Cell Depletion Therapy in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 71:641-650. [PMID: 30375745 DOI: 10.1002/art.40766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of rituximab (RTX) and conventional immunosuppressants (CIs) on CD4+ T cells, Treg cells, and CD8+ T cells in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV). METHODS A thorough immunophenotype analysis of CD4+, Treg, and CD8+ cells from 51 patients with AAV was performed. The production of cytokines and chemokines by CD8+ T cells stimulated in vitro was assessed using a multiplex immunoassay. The impact of AAV B cells on CD8+ T cell response was assessed using autologous and heterologous cocultures. RESULTS CD4+ and Treg cell subsets were comparable among RTX-treated and CI-treated patients. In contrast, within the CD8+ T cell compartment, RTX, but not CIS, reduced CD45RA+CCR7- (TEMRA) cell frequency (from a median of 39% before RTX treatment to 10% after RTX treatment [P < 0.01]) and efficiently dampened cytokine/chemokine production (e.g., the median macrophage inflammatory protein 1α level was 815 pg/ml in patients treated with RTX versus 985 pg/ml in patients treated with CIs versus 970 pg/ml in those with active untreated AAV [P < 0.01]). CD8+ T cell subsets cocultured with autologous B cells produced more proinflammatory cytokines in AAV patients than in controls (e.g., for tumor necrosis factor-producing effector memory CD8+ T cells: 14% in AAV patients versus 9.2% in controls [P < 0.05]). In vitro disruption of AAV B cell-CD8+ T cell cross-talk reduced CD8+ T cell cytokine production, mirroring the reduced CD8+ response observed ex vivo after RTX treatment. CONCLUSION The disruption of a pathogenic B cell/CD8+ T cell axis may contribute to the efficacy of RTX in AAV. Further studies are needed to determine the value of CD8+ T cell immunomonitoring in B cell-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Néel
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Marie Bucchia
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Mélanie Néel
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Gaelle Tilly
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Aurélie Caristan
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | | | - Marie Rimbert
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Sarah Bruneau
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Marion Cadoux
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | | | - Maryvonne Hourmant
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes France, and Centre Hospitalier Bretagne Atlantique, Vannes, France
| | - Pascal Godmer
- Centre Hospitalier Bretagne Atlantique, Vannes, France
| | - Sophie Brouard
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | | | - Mohamed Hamidou
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Regis Josien
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Fadi Fakhouri
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Nicolas Degauque
- INSERM UMR1064, Université de Nantes and CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
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Tudesq JJ, Cartron G, Rivière S, Morquin D, Iordache L, Mahr A, Pourcher V, Klouche K, Cerutti D, Le Quellec A, Guilpain P. Clinical and microbiological characteristics of the infections in patients treated with rituximab for autoimmune and/or malignant hematological disorders. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 17:115-124. [PMID: 29180125 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rituximab is commonly used for the treatment of hematological malignancies and autoimmune diseases. Despite a reputation for good tolerance, case-series and registries reported rituximab-related infections of variable severity including opportunistic infections. We aimed at describing the natural history of infectious events (IE) after treatment by rituximab providing clinical and microbiological features and outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients treated with rituximab in an internal medicine department of a tertiary hospital between 2007 and 2015, and identified all IE after this therapy. Events' severity was assessed using the Common Terminological Criteria of Adverse Events (version 4.3) definitions. RESULTS Among 101 patients treated with rituximab, we identified 228 IE in 74 (73.3%) of these patients (median follow-up 30.4months). Indication for rituximab was either autoimmune disease (AID) (52.5% of patients), or monoclonal hematological disease (MHD) (47.5%). Patients received an overall median number of 5 rituximab infusions [interquartile range: 4-8], representing a cumulative dose of 4340mg [2620-6160]. After last rituximab infusion, IE occurred after 3.1months [0.7-9.4]. Respectively, IE were severe in 28.1% of cases in patients treated for AID vs 58.0% in patients treated for MHD (p<0.001), due to opportunistic pathogens in 7.8% vs 11.0% (p=0.49) and fatal in 4.7% vs 13.0% (p=0.044). Factor associated with mortality were polymicrobial infection (p<0.001), monoclonal hematological disease (p=0.035), use of steroids over 10mg/d within the last two weeks (p=0.003), and rituximab cumulative dose (p<0.001). We identified a group of 10 patients (9.9%) showing life-threatening, polymicrobial, and opportunistic infections constituting a 'catastrophic infectious syndrome', which was lethal in 7 cases. CONCLUSION IE after treatment by rituximab can be extremely severe, especially in patients immunocompromised by several other drugs. Further studies should focus on the group with life-threatening polymicrobial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Jacques Tudesq
- Internal Medicine and Multi-organic Diseases Department, Local Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune Diseases, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier F-34000, France; Medical Intensive Care Unit, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier F-34000, France
| | - Guillaume Cartron
- Clinical Hematology Department, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, F-34000, France; Centre National de Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 5235, Montpellier University, Montpellier F-34000, France
| | - Sophie Rivière
- Internal Medicine and Multi-organic Diseases Department, Local Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune Diseases, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier F-34000, France
| | - David Morquin
- Infectious Diseases Department, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, F-34000, France
| | - Laura Iordache
- Internal Medicine Department, Saint-Louis University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris F-75010, France
| | - Alfred Mahr
- Internal Medicine Department, Saint-Louis University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris F-75010, France
| | - Valérie Pourcher
- Infectious Diseases Department, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Kada Klouche
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier F-34000, France
| | - Diane Cerutti
- Internal Medicine and Multi-organic Diseases Department, Local Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune Diseases, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier F-34000, France
| | - Alain Le Quellec
- Internal Medicine and Multi-organic Diseases Department, Local Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune Diseases, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier F-34000, France
| | - Philippe Guilpain
- Internal Medicine and Multi-organic Diseases Department, Local Referral Center for Rare Autoimmune Diseases, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier F-34000, France; Institut National de la Santé Et de la Rercherche Médicale (INSERM) U1183, Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapies (IRMB), Montpellier F-34000, France.
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Madanchi N, Bitzan M, Takano T. Rituximab in Minimal Change Disease: Mechanisms of Action and Hypotheses for Future Studies. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2017; 4:2054358117698667. [PMID: 28540057 PMCID: PMC5433659 DOI: 10.1177/2054358117698667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment with rituximab, a monoclonal antibody against the B-lymphocyte surface protein CD20, leads to the depletion of B cells. Recently, rituximab was reported to effectively prevent relapses of glucocorticoid-dependent or frequently relapsing minimal change disease (MCD). MCD is thought to be T-cell mediated; how rituximab controls MCD is not understood. In this review, we summarize key clinical studies demonstrating the efficacy of rituximab in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, mainly MCD. We then discuss immunological features of this disease and potential mechanisms of action of rituximab in its treatment based on what is known about the therapeutic action of rituximab in other immune-mediated disorders. We believe that studies aimed at understanding the mechanisms of action of rituximab in MCD will provide a novel approach to resolve the elusive immune pathophysiology of MCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Madanchi
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Martin Bitzan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tomoko Takano
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Besada E, Nossent JC. CD4 cell count and CD4/CD8 ratio increase during rituximab maintenance in granulomatosis with polyangiitis patients. PeerJ 2016; 4:e2487. [PMID: 27688979 PMCID: PMC5036106 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Rituximab (RTX) is a B cell-depleting agent approved for the treatment of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). RTX reduces antibody producing precursor plasma cells and inhibits B and T cells interaction. Infections related to T cell immunodeficiency are not infrequent during RTX treatment. Our study investigated CD4 cell count and CD4/CD8 ratio in GPA patients during the first two years of long-term RTX treatment. Methods A single centre cohort study of 35 patients who received median total cumulative dose of cyclophosphamide (CYC) of 15 g and were treated with RTX 2 g followed by retreatment with either 2 g once annually or 1 g biannually. Serum levels of total immunoglobulin (Ig) and lymphocytes subsets were recorded at RTX initiation and at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Low CD4 count and inverted CD4/CD8 ratio were defined as CD4 < 0.3 × 109/l and ratio < 1. Results The CD4 cell count and CD4/CD8 ratio decreased slightly following the initial RTX treatment and then increased gradually during maintenance treatment. While the proportion of patients with low CD4 cell count decreased from 43% at baseline to 18% at 24 months, the ratio remained inverted in 40%. Oral daily prednisolone dose at baseline, CYC exposure and the maintenance regimen did not influence the CD4 cell count and ratio. Being older (p = 0.012) and having a higher CRP (p = 0.044) and ESR (p = 0.024) at baseline significantly increased the risk of inverted CD4/CD8 ratio at 24 months. Inverted ratio at baseline associated with lower total Ig levels during the study. Conclusions Overall, the CD4 and CD4/CD8 ratio increased during maintenance RTX therapy in GPA with no discernible impact of other immunosuppressive therapy. However the increase in CD4 was not followed by an increase in the CD4/CD8 ratio, especially in older patients. Inverted CD4/CD8 ratio associated with lower Ig levels, suggesting a more profound B cell depleting effect of RTX with a relative increase in CD8+ lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Besada
- Bone and Joint Research Group, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Tromsø , Norway
| | - Johannes C Nossent
- School of Medicine & Pharmacology QEII Medical Centre Unit, University of Western Australia, Australia; Rheumatology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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Stradner MH, Dejaco C, Brickmann K, Graninger WB, Brezinschek HP. A combination of cellular biomarkers predicts failure to respond to rituximab in rheumatoid arthritis: a 24-week observational study. Arthritis Res Ther 2016; 18:190. [PMID: 27558631 PMCID: PMC4997751 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-016-1091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although B cell depletion with rituximab (RTX) is an effective treatment strategy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), one third of patients do not achieve remission or low disease activity (LDA). Thus, identifying patients who will benefit from RTX is highly desirable. In the present study we investigated whether lymphocyte subsets other than B cells are predictors of a clinical response to RTX treatment. METHODS Patients with RA who were receiving RTX for the first time were included in an observatory registry. Clinical assessments, complete blood count and flow cytometry of lymphocyte subsets were obtained at baseline and at week 24 after RTX. Complete data were available for 44 patients. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were computed to analyze the predictive value of lymphocyte subsets for European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) response and LDA (defined as disease activity score in 28 joints (DAS28) ≤3.2) at week 24. RESULTS EULAR responders had lower total lymphocyte counts (LC), T cells and CD4 + T cells at baseline. Although these parameters were independent predictors of EULAR response they failed in determining who would reach LDA. In contrast, LC >2910/μl or plasmablast frequency >2.85 % at baseline predicted a significantly higher DAS28 at week 24 after RTX and identified patients not achieving LDA at week 24 with sensitivity of 93.3 % and specificity of 44.8 %. CONCLUSIONS A combination of LC and plasmablast frequency identifies patients with RA who will not benefit from RTX with high probability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin H Stradner
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Kerstin Brickmann
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Winfried B Graninger
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Altered immunoregulation in rheumatoid arthritis: the role of regulatory T cells and proinflammatory Th17 cells and therapeutic implications. Mediators Inflamm 2015; 2015:751793. [PMID: 25918479 PMCID: PMC4397010 DOI: 10.1155/2015/751793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years several studies investigated the role of T lymphocyte subpopulations in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Pathogenic Th17 cells mediate pannus growth, osteoclastogenesis, and synovial neoangiogenesis; hence they are key players in the development of the disease. On the other hand, regulatory T (Treg) cells are a T cell subset whose peculiar function is to suppress autoreactive lymphocytes. The imbalance between Th17 and Treg cells has been identified as a crucial event in the pathogenesis of RA. In addition, the effects of currently employed RA therapeutic strategies on these lymphocyte subpopulations have been extensively investigated. This review article aims to discuss current knowledge on Treg and Th17 cells in RA and possible implications of their therapeutic targeting in this disorder.
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Byng-Maddick R, Ehrenstein MR. The impact of biological therapy on regulatory T cells in rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2015; 54:768-75. [PMID: 25667434 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keu487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) are functionally defective in patients with RA. Restoring their function may not only control inflammation but also restore tolerance in these patients. Biologic therapies have been tremendously successful in treating RA. Here we review numerous reports suggesting that these immunomodulatory therapies have an impact on Treg and that this may contribute to their beneficial effects. Better understanding of their mode of action may not only lead to improvements in therapies and sustained remission but also enable the development of biomarkers of response, which would be the first steps towards personalized medicine.
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Yang SH, Hsu C, Cheng AL, Kuo SH. Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies and associated viral hepatitis in hematological diseases. World J Hematol 2014; 3:29-43. [DOI: 10.5315/wjh.v3.i2.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Revised: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the administration of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies such as rituximab has demonstrated various degrees of effectiveness and has improved patients’ outcomes during the treatment of autoimmune hematological disorders and hematological malignancies. However, the depletion of B-cells, the distribution of T-cell populations, and the reconstruction of host immunity resulting from the use of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies potentially lead to severe viral infections, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), parvovirus B19, and herpes viruses, in patients who are undergoing immune therapy or immunochemotherapy. Of these infections, HBV- and HCV-related hepatitis are a great concern in endemic areas because of the high morbidity and mortality rates in untreated patients. As a result, prophylaxis against HBV infection is becoming a standard of care in these areas. Parvovirus B19, a widespread pathogen that causes red blood cell aplasia in immunocompromised hosts, also causes hepatitis in healthy individuals. Recently, its association with hepatitis was recognized in a patient treated with rituximab. In addition, adenovirus, varicella-zoster virus, hepatitis E virus, and rituximab itself have been linked to the occurrence of hepatitis during or after rituximab treatments. The epidemiologies and pathogeneses of these etiologies remain unknown. Because of the increasing use of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of hematological malignancies or autoimmune hematological disorders, it is imperative that physicians understand and balance the risks of hepatotropic virus-associated hepatitis against the benefits of using anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies.
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Kobezda T, Ghassemi-Nejad S, Mikecz K, Glant TT, Szekanecz Z. Of mice and men: how animal models advance our understanding of T-cell function in RA. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2014; 10:160-70. [PMID: 24394350 DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum.2013.205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The involvement of autoreactive T cells in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as well as in autoimmune animal models of arthritis has been well established; however, unanswered questions, such as the role of joint-homing T cells, remain. Animal models of arthritis are superb experimental tools in demonstrating how T cells trigger joint inflammation, and thus can help to further our knowledge of disease mechanisms and potential therapies. In this Review, we discuss the similarities and differences in T-cell subsets and functions between RA and mouse arthritis models. For example, various T-cell subsets are involved in both human and mouse arthritis, but differences might exist in the cytokine regulation and plasticity of these cells. With regard to joint-homing T cells, an abundance of synovial T cells is present in humans compared with mice. On the other hand, local expansion of type 17 T-helper (TH17) cells is observed in some animal models, but not in RA. Finally, whereas T-cell depletion therapy essentially failed in RA, antibody targeting of T cells can work, at least preventatively, in most arthritis models. Clearly, additional human and animal studies are needed to fill the gap in our understanding of the specific contribution of T-cell subsets to arthritis in mice and men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Kobezda
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medicine, University of Debrecen Medical and Health Science Centre, 98 Nagyerdei Street, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary
| | - Sheida Ghassemi-Nejad
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medicine, University of Debrecen Medical and Health Science Centre, 98 Nagyerdei Street, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary
| | - Katalin Mikecz
- Section of Molecular Medicine, Departments of Orthopedic Surgery, Biochemistry and Rheumatology, Rush University Medical Centre, 1735 West Harrison Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Tibor T Glant
- Section of Molecular Medicine, Departments of Orthopedic Surgery, Biochemistry and Rheumatology, Rush University Medical Centre, 1735 West Harrison Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Zoltán Szekanecz
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medicine, University of Debrecen Medical and Health Science Centre, 98 Nagyerdei Street, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary
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Mélet J, Mulleman D, Goupille P, Ribourtout B, Watier H, Thibault G. Rituximab-induced T cell depletion in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: association with clinical response. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 65:2783-90. [PMID: 23918413 DOI: 10.1002/art.38107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody specifically targeting CD20, induces B cell depletion and is effective in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study was undertaken to evaluate whether routine monitoring of lymphocyte subpopulations, especially T cells, may be useful in patients receiving rituximab for RA. METHODS We examined data on all RA patients receiving rituximab between July 2007 and November 2012 in our center. Peripheral blood CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD3-CD56+, and CD19+ lymphocyte counts before and during the first course of rituximab were measured by flow cytometry. The Mann-Whitney nonparametric test was used to compare lymphocyte subpopulation counts before and during treatment. RESULTS Data on 52 patients were examined. Rituximab induced unexpected and substantial depletion of T cells, mainly CD4+ cells, in most patients. The CD4+ cell count decreased by a mean ± SD of 37 ± 33% as compared to baseline at week 12, reaching <200 cells/μl in 3 patients. Importantly, lack of CD4+ cell depletion was associated with no clinical response. Therefore, the mechanism of action of rituximab may depend at least in part on T cells. CONCLUSION Rituximab induces substantial T cell depletion, mainly of CD4+ cells, which is associated with the clinical response in RA. Routine monitoring of T cells may be useful in the clinical setting of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mélet
- Université François-Rabelais de Tours, CNRS, UMR 7292, and Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Tours, Tours, France
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Burak KW, Swain MG, Santodomingo-Garzon T, Santodomino-Garzon T, Lee SS, Urbanski SJ, Aspinall AI, Coffin CS, Myers RP. Rituximab for the treatment of patients with autoimmune hepatitis who are refractory or intolerant to standard therapy. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2013; 27:273-80. [PMID: 23712302 PMCID: PMC3735730 DOI: 10.1155/2013/512624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2012] [Accepted: 12/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although most patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) respond to treatment with prednisone and⁄or azathioprine, some patients are intolerant or refractory to standard therapy. Rituximab is an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that depletes B cells and has demonstrated efficacy in other autoimmune conditions. AIMS To evaluate the safety and efficacy of rituximab in patients with refractory AIH in an open-label, single-centre pilot study. METHODS Six patients with definite, biopsy-proven AIH who failed prednisone and azathioprine treatment received two infusions of rituximab 1000 mg two weeks apart and were followed for 72 weeks. RESULTS Rituximab was well tolerated with no serious adverse events. By week 24, mean (± SD) aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels had significantly improved (90.0±23.3 U⁄L versus 31.3±4.2 U⁄L; P=0.03) and mean immunoglobulin G levels had fallen (16.4±2.0 g⁄L versus 11.5±1.1 g⁄L; P=0.056). The prednisone dose was weaned in three of four subjects, with one subject flaring after steroid withdrawal. Inflammation grade improved in all four subjects who underwent repeat liver biopsy at week 48. Regulatory T cell levels examined by FoxP3 immunohistochemistry paralleled inflammatory activity and did not increase on follow-up biopsies. There was no significant change in serum chemokine or cytokine levels from baseline to week 24 (n=5), although interferon-gamma-induced protein 10 levels improved in three of five subjects. CONCLUSIONS Rituximab was safe, well tolerated and resulted in biochemical improvement in subjects with refractory AIH. These results support further investigation of rituximab as a treatment for AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly W Burak
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterologyand Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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17
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Hoehlig K, Shen P, Lampropoulou V, Roch T, Malissen B, O'Connor R, Ries S, Hilgenberg E, Anderton SM, Fillatreau S. Activation of CD4⁺ Foxp3⁺ regulatory T cells proceeds normally in the absence of B cells during EAE. Eur J Immunol 2012; 42:1164-73. [PMID: 22539290 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201142242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
B cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells can both facilitate remission from experimental auto immune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a disease of the central nervous system (CNS) used as a model for multiple sclerosis (MS). Considering that B-cell-depletion therapy (BCDT) is used to treat MS patients, we asked whether Treg-cell activation depended on B cells during EAE. Treg-cell proliferation, accumulation in CNS, and augmentation of suppressive activity in the CNS were normal in B-cell-deficient mice, indicating that B cells are not essential for activation of the protective Treg-cell response and thus provide an independent layer of regulation. This function of B cells involved early suppression of the encephalitogenic CD4(+) T-cell response, which was enhanced in B-cell-deficient mice. CD4(+) T-cell depletion was sufficient to intercept the transition from acute-to-chronic EAE when applied to B-cell-deficient animals that just reached the peak of disease severity. Intriguingly, this treatment did not improve disease when applied later, implying that chronic disability was ultimately maintained independently of pathogenic CD4(+) T cells. Collectively, our data indicate that BCDT is unlikely to impair Treg-cell function, yet it might produce undesirable effects on T-cell-mediated autoimmune pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Hoehlig
- Deutsches Rheuma-ForschungsZentrum a Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany
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18
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Immunologic parameters and viral infections in patients desensitized with intravenous immunoglobulin and rituximab. Transpl Immunol 2011; 24:142-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2010.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2010] [Revised: 11/22/2010] [Accepted: 11/23/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Fainardi E, Castellazzi M, Stignani M, Morandi F, Sana G, Gonzalez R, Pistoia V, Baricordi OR, Sokal E, Peña J. Emerging topics and new perspectives on HLA-G. Cell Mol Life Sci 2011; 68:433-51. [PMID: 21080027 PMCID: PMC11114687 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-010-0584-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2010] [Accepted: 10/22/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Following the Fifth International Conference on non-classical HLA-G antigens (HLA-G), held in Paris in July 2009, we selected some topics which focus on emerging aspects in the setting of HLA-G functions. In particular, HLA-G molecules could play a role in: (1) various inflammatory disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, intracerebral hemorrhage, gastrointestinal, skin and rheumatic diseases, and asthma, where they may act as immunoregulatory factors; (2) the mechanisms to escape immune surveillance utilized by several viruses, such as human cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus type 1, rabies virus, hepatitis C virus, influenza virus type A and human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1); and (3) cytokine/chemokine network and stem cell transplantation, since they seem to modulate cell migration by the downregulation of chemokine receptor expression and mesenchymal stem cell activity blocking of effector cell functions and the generation of regulatory T cells. However, the immunomodulatory circuits mediated by HLA-G proteins still remain to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Fainardi
- Neuroradiology Unit, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria, Arcispedale S. Anna, Corso della Giovecca 203, 44100 Ferrara, Italy.
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Nguyen TG, Little CB, Yenson VM, Jackson CJ, McCracken SA, Warning J, Stevens V, Gallery EG, Morris JM. Anti-IgD antibody attenuates collagen-induced arthritis by selectively depleting mature B-cells and promoting immune tolerance. J Autoimmun 2010; 35:86-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2010.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2010] [Revised: 03/17/2010] [Accepted: 03/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
Rituximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody that depletes B cells by binding to the CD20 cell-surface antigen, has been investigated extensively in autoimmune disorders. Following the encouraging results in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), the use of this agent was explored in other autoimmune hematologic diseases, most notably autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), characterized by the presence of pathogenetic autoantibodies. Although randomized clinical trials are lacking, the cumulative data would suggest that rituximab has a beneficial role in their treatment. Response to B-cell-depleting therapy is actually associated with a significant decrease of circulating autoantibodies. However, several lines of evidence indicate that the T-cell compartment may also be modulated by these interventions. The doses and the duration of rituximab treatment in patients with autoimmune diseases are still unclear. The incidence of severe side effects is low but not insignificant. In particular, the risk of systemic infections and viral reactivation is a major concern.
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Parietti V, Chifflot H, Sibilia J, Muller S, Monneaux F. Rituximab treatment overcomes reduction of regulatory iNKT cells in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Immunol 2010; 134:331-9. [PMID: 20022305 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2009.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2009] [Revised: 10/13/2009] [Accepted: 11/17/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a subset of T cells that recognize glycolipid antigens presented by the CD1d molecule. Accumulating evidences showed that iNKT cells are implicated in the regulatory mechanisms that control autoimmunity. We evaluated the number of circulating iNKT cells in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by flow cytometry and performed a longitudinal analysis of iNKT cell frequency in RA patients who were given an anti-CD20 therapy. Significantly lower iNKT cell numbers were measured in the blood from RA patients compared to healthy individuals (p<0.0001) and low iNKT cell frequencies were rather associated with an active disease. In RA patients who received rituximab treatment, iNKT cell number was increased in relation to the clinical outcome. We demonstrated that the number of iNKT cells is altered in RA patients and that following rituximab therapy, clinical remission of RA is associated with an increase of iNKT cell frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Véronique Parietti
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Strasbourg, France
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Rituximab therapy produced rapid and sustained clinical improvement in a patient with systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis refractory to TNF alpha antagonists. J Clin Rheumatol 2010; 15:363-5. [PMID: 20009975 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0b013e3181ba3c6f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We describe a patient with systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis refractory to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, intravenous gamma globulin, and TNF inhibitors (etanercept and infliximab), in whom treatment with rituximab resulted in remission of systemic symptoms (rash and fever), a fall in erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and ferritin serum levels, with recovery in disability index and improvement of arthritis. A total of 4 cycles of rituximab were given over 18 months because of relapses. Since her last course, she remains stable and asymptomatic. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported on a long-lasting beneficial effect of rituximab in a patient with soJIA.
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The effect of rituximab on humoral and cell mediated immunity and infection in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Br J Haematol 2010; 149:3-13. [PMID: 20151975 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2010.08076.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Depletion of B lymphocytes using the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab has wide-spread use in the treatment of patients with autoimmune disorders. As haematopoietic progenitor cells and only a fraction of differentiated plasma express CD20, the effect of rituximab on immune function appears to be minimal. However, hypogammagobulinaemia can occur with repeated doses and emerging data from large studies suggest a subtle increase in the risk of infection. Reactivation of latent JC virus, resulting in progressive multifocal leucoencephalopathy, and hepatitis B virus, resulting in hepatoxicity, have been documented in patients receiving rituximab; although confounding effects of concomitant immunosuppressive therapies and immune dysregulation due to the underlying disease make causal associations of infections problematic. This review discusses the efficacy of B cell depletion therapy in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, the effect of B cell depletion on infection and immunity including the role of the B cell in autoimmunity, and identifies areas of controversy.
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Dörner T, Kinnman N, Tak PP. Targeting B cells in immune-mediated inflammatory disease: a comprehensive review of mechanisms of action and identification of biomarkers. Pharmacol Ther 2010; 125:464-75. [PMID: 20097226 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2010.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2009] [Accepted: 01/08/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
B cell-depletion therapy, particularly using anti-CD20 treatment, has provided proof of concept that targeting B cells and the humoral response may result in clinical improvements in immune-mediated inflammatory disease. In this review, the mechanisms of action of B cell-targeting drugs are investigated, and potential biomarkers associated with response to treatment in patients with autoimmune diseases are identified. Most available data relate to B cell depletion using anti-CD20 therapy (rituximab) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Treatment leads to significant clinical benefit, but apparently fails to deplete long-lived plasma cells, and discontinuation is associated with relapse. Biomarkers commonly used in studies of B cell-targeted therapies include rheumatoid factor, anti-citrullinated peptide antibodies, and immunoglobulin (Ig) levels. More recently, there has been interest in markers such as B cell phenotype analysis, and B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS)/a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), the latter particularly in studies of the IgG Fc-transmembrane activator and CAML interactor (TACI) fusion protein (atacicept) and anti-BLyS therapy (belimumab). Data from clinical trials of B cell-depleting agents in RA suggest that specific autoantibodies, BLyS, APRIL, and circulating and synovial B lineage cell levels may have potential as biomarkers predictive of response to treatment. Further trials validating these markers against clinical outcomes in RA are required. In patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, Fc receptors and levels of circulating immune cells (including B cells and natural killer cells) may be relevant markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Dörner
- Charité Center 12, Dept. Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Hospital Berlin and Deutsches Rheumaforschungszentrum, Berlin, Germany
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