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Askanase AD, Furie RA, Dall'Era M, Bomback AS, Schwarting A, Zhao MH, Bruce IN, Khamashta M, Rubin B, Carroll A, Daniels M, Levy RA, van Vollenhoven R, Urowitz MB. Disease-modifying therapies in systemic lupus erythematosus for extrarenal manifestations. Lupus Sci Med 2024; 11:e001124. [PMID: 38777595 PMCID: PMC11116871 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2023-001124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Our 2022 published working definition of disease modification in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was 'minimising disease activity with the fewest treatment-associated toxicities and slowing or preventing organ damage progression'. The objective of this review was to classify current SLE treatments according to the proposed non-renal disease modification criteria excluding toxicities. Based on a review of select clinical trial (n=32) and observational study (n=54) publications for 14 SLE medications across different therapeutic classes, and the authors' clinical experience, we evaluated disease modification potential as per the proposed framework at three time points. Specific criteria used to determine disease modification potential included a drug's capacity to reduce: (1) non-renal disease activity, (2) severe flares, (3) use of steroids/immunosuppressants and (4) organ damage accrual. Criteria 1-3 were assessed at 1 year and 2-5 years and, when positive, were considered evidence for disease modification potential; criterion 4 was used to confirm disease modification at >5 years. Each treatment received one of four mutually exclusive designations at each time point: (a) criterion met, (b) indications of criterion met despite insufficient evidence in the literature, (c) inconclusive and (d) no available supportive data. This review excludes an assessment of potential toxicities. Eight of the 14 SLE treatments met ≥1 disease modification criteria up to year 5. Hydroxychloroquine improved overall survival at >5 years, suggesting long-term disease modification, but no data on specific organ systems were reported. Belimumab was the only treatment to meet all criteria. Belimumab and hydroxychloroquine met disease modification definitions across three time points. Evidence for other SLE therapies was incomplete, particularly at >5 years. Future studies are warranted for other treatments to meet the disease modification criteria. We discuss challenges to classification and possible updates to our published criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca D Askanase
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Richard A Furie
- Division of Rheumatology, Northwell Health, Great Neck, New York, USA
| | - Maria Dall'Era
- Division of Rheumatology, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Andrew S Bomback
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andreas Schwarting
- Rheumatology Center Rhineland Palatinate, Bad Kreuznach, Germany
- University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ming-Hui Zhao
- Renal Division, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ian N Bruce
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Bernie Rubin
- US Medical Affairs, GSK, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Angela Carroll
- US Medical Affairs, GSK, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Roger Abramino Levy
- Specialty Care, Global Medical Affairs, GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ronald van Vollenhoven
- Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center and Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Murray B Urowitz
- Professor Emeritus, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Magesan K, Nangia P, Manoharan A, Sitaula RK, Srikantiah C, Biswas J. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) associated uveitis in India - A case series. Indian J Ophthalmol 2024; 72:677-680. [PMID: 38099362 PMCID: PMC11168564 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_1579_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the uveitic manifestations of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of all SLE cases with ocular manifestations seen by a single ophthalmologist between 2015 and December 2021. RESULTS In total, seven patients with a median age of 40 (range 18-50) years were included in the study. Female (85.7%) predominance was noted. Ocular findings were bilateral in 71% (five patients) of cases. Majority (10 eyes, 83%) of the patients had retinal vasculitis as the common finding. Antinuclear antibodies were positive in all the patients. The vision improved in two (16.6%) eyes, was stable in eight (66%) eyes, and worsened in one (8%) eye. All the patients were treated with oral steroids along with immunosuppressive agents. CONCLUSION Though SLE is rare cause of uveitis, it can be associated with significant ocular morbidity. Hence, early diagnosis and treatment can salvage vision in many cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kowsigan Magesan
- Department of Uvea, Medical and Vision Research Foundations, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Purna Nangia
- Department of Uvea, Medical and Vision Research Foundations, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anitha Manoharan
- Department of Uvea, Medical and Vision Research Foundations, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ranju K Sitaula
- Department of Uvea, Uveitis Specialist, BPKLCOS, IOM, TU, Nepal
| | - Chandrashekara Srikantiah
- Department of Uvea, ChanRe Rheumatology and Immunology Center and Research, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Jyotirmay Biswas
- Department of Uvea, Medical and Vision Research Foundations, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Taubmann J, Müller F, Yalcin Mutlu M, Völkl S, Aigner M, Bozec A, Mackensen A, Grieshaber-Bouyer R, Schett G. CD19 Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Treatment: Unraveling the Role of B Cells in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Arthritis Rheumatol 2024; 76:497-504. [PMID: 38114423 DOI: 10.1002/art.42784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
B cell generation of autoantibodies is a crucial step in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). After their differentiation in the bone marrow, B cells populate the secondary lymphatic organs, where they undergo further maturation leading to the development of memory B cells as well as antibody-producing plasmablasts and plasma cells. Targeting B cells is an important strategy to treat autoimmune diseases such as SLE, in which B cell tolerance is disturbed and autoimmune B cells and autoantibodies emerge. This review discusses the functional aspects of antibody- and cell-based B cell-depleting therapy in SLE. It thereby particularly focuses on lessons learned from chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell treatment on the role of B cells in SLE for understanding B cell pathology in SLE. CAR T cells model a deep B cell depletion and thereby allow understanding the role of aberrant B cell activation in the pathogenesis of SLE. Furthermore, the effects of B cell depletion on autoantibody production can be better described, ie, explaining the concept of different cellular sources of (auto-) antibodies in the form of short-lived plasmablasts and long-lived plasma cells, which differ in their susceptibility to B cell depletion and require different targeted therapeutic approaches. Finally, the safety of deep B cell depletion in autoimmune disease is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jule Taubmann
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Fabian Müller
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Melek Yalcin Mutlu
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Simon Völkl
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Aigner
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aline Bozec
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Mackensen
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ricardo Grieshaber-Bouyer
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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Yadav S, Balakrishnan C, Mangat G, Kothari J. Rituximab as add-on therapy in patients with resistant lupus nephritis who have failed induction or maintenance therapy with other agents: A real-world experience from a single center in Mumbai. Lupus 2024; 33:88-95. [PMID: 38048588 DOI: 10.1177/09612033231219354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lupus nephritis (LN) is associated with poor outcomes and a significant risk of progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Some patients with resistant LN do not respond adequately to current treatment options and need alternative strategies or therapies. OBJECTIVE The objective is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rituximab as a re-induction therapy (Re-RTX) followed by maintenance therapy for patients with resistant LN. METHODS Twenty-four patients with resistant LN (failed initial induction therapy or severe relapse after remission) were analyzed. Re-RTX was co-administered with other immunosuppressants. The primary KDIGO criteria outcomes included renal response (complete and partial), disease progression, relapses, and infections. RESULTS The median age was 28 years (IQR 24.5-42), and the female-to-male ratio was 11:1. All patients had active LN, and 91.3% had proliferative LN. Baseline creatinine was 1.075 mg% (IQR 0.7-1.38), and mean urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) was 4.9 (IQR 2.8-6.65). Of the patients receiving RTX as re-induction therapy, 66.6% (16/24) had failed initial induction therapy with other immunosuppressants, whereas 33.3% (8/24) had severe relapse during maintenance therapy.Re-RTX had a favorable renal response at 6 months, with 91.7% of the patients responding (20.8% complete response and 70.8% partial response). At 12 months, 58.3% of the patients maintained a renal response (25% complete response and 33.3% partial response). Approximately one-third of patients relapsed within a year.Fourteen patients (58.3%) continued RTX maintenance therapy with two different treatment regimens. At 6 months, Regimen-1 (500 mg every 6 months) resulted in a partial response in 43% (3/7) and relapse in 57% (4/7) of patients. Regimen 2 (1 g dose per year) achieved a complete response in 28.5% (2/7) and a partial response in 71.5% (5/7) with no relapses at 6 months.At a median follow-up of 29 months, adverse renal outcomes were observed in 29.16% of the patients with progression to advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The overall use of Re-RTX was considered safe, with a reported infection prevalence of 16%, which is comparable to the existing data. CONCLUSION Re-RTX demonstrated efficacy and safety as an induction therapy for resistant LN. However, the response waned after 1 year, underscoring the need for optimized maintenance therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Yadav
- Department of Rheumatology, PD Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - C Balakrishnan
- Head of Department of Rheumatology, PD Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Gurmeet Mangat
- Department of Rheumatology, PD Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Jatin Kothari
- Renal Transplant Medicine, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai and Consultant Nephrologist & Section Coordinator-Nephrology Hinduja Healthcare, Mumbai
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Rovin BH, Ayoub IM, Chan TM, Liu ZH, Mejía-Vilet JM, Floege J. KDIGO 2024 Clinical Practice Guideline for the management of LUPUS NEPHRITIS. Kidney Int 2024; 105:S1-S69. [PMID: 38182286 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
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Xipell M, Lledó GM, Egan AC, Tamirou F, Del Castillo CS, Rovira J, Gómez-Puerta JA, García-Herrera A, Cervera R, Kronbichler A, Jayne DRW, Anders HJ, Houssiau F, Espinosa G, Quintana LF. From systemic lupus erythematosus to lupus nephritis: The evolving road to targeted therapies. Autoimmun Rev 2023; 22:103404. [PMID: 37543287 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by loss of tolerance against nuclear and cytoplasmic self-antigens, induction of immunity and tissue inflammation. Lupus nephritis (LN), the most important predictor of morbidity in SLE, develops in almost 30% of SLE patients at disease onset and in up to 50-60% within the first 10 years. Firstly, in this review, we put the pathogenic mechanisms of the disease into a conceptual frame, giving emphasis to the role of the innate immune system in this loss of self-tolerance and the induction of the adaptive immune response. In this aspect, many mechanisms have been described such as dysregulation and acceleration of cell-death pathways, an aberrant clearance and overload of immunogenic acid-nucleic-containing debris and IC, and the involvement of antigen-presenting cells and other innate immune cells in the induction of this adaptive immune response. This result in a clonal expansion of autoreactive lymphocytes with generation of effector T-cells, memory B-cells and plasma cells that produce autoantibodies that will cause kidney damage. Secondly, we review the immunological pathways of damage in the kidney parenchyma, initiated by autoantibody binding and immune complex deposition, and followed by complement-mediated microvascular injury, activation of kidney stromal cells and the recruitment of leukocytes. Finally, we summarize the rationale for the treatment of LN, from conventional to new targeted therapies, focusing on their systemic immunologic effects and the minimization of podocytary damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Xipell
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, Clinic Barcelona, Spain; Reference Center for Complex Glomerular Diseases of the Spanish Health System (CSUR), Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gema M Lledó
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Clínic Barcelona, Spain; Reference Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases of the Spanish Health System (CSUR), Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Allyson C Egan
- Vasculitis and Lupus Service, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Farah Tamirou
- Rheumatology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Bruxelles, Belgium; Pôle de Pathologies Rhumatismales Inflammatoires et Systémiques, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | | | - Jordi Rovira
- Laboratori Experimental de Nefrologia i Trasplantament (LENIT), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - José A Gómez-Puerta
- Department of Rheumatology, Clínic Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Adriana García-Herrera
- Department of Pathology, Clínic Barcelona, Spain; Reference Center for Complex Glomerular Diseases of the Spanish Health System (CSUR), Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ricard Cervera
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Clínic Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andreas Kronbichler
- Vasculitis and Lupus Service, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David R W Jayne
- Vasculitis and Lupus Service, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Hans-Joachim Anders
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Frédéric Houssiau
- Vasculitis and Lupus Service, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gerard Espinosa
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Clínic Barcelona, Spain; Reference Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases of the Spanish Health System (CSUR), Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Luis F Quintana
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, Clinic Barcelona, Spain; Reference Center for Complex Glomerular Diseases of the Spanish Health System (CSUR), Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
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Roccatello D, Baffa A, Naretto C, Barreca A, Cravero R, Roscini E, Sciascia S, Fenoglio R. Focal segmental glomerular sclerosis can be effectively treated using an intensive B-cell depletion therapy. Clin Kidney J 2023; 16:1258-1264. [PMID: 37529640 PMCID: PMC10387391 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfac207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Focal segmental glomerular sclerosis (FSGS) is a histologic lesion rather than a specific disease entity and represents a cluster of different conditions affecting both children and adults that includes primary, secondary and genetically mediated forms. These forms can be distinguished by electron microscopy and genetic assessment and show different responsiveness to steroids and immunosuppressants. Despite some promising effects of rituximab in nephrotic syndrome in children, the results in adults with FSGS are disappointing. Our group previously explored the effectiveness of rituximab in eight adult patients with unselected forms of FSGS and achieved a consistent reduction in proteinuria in one case. Following this experience, we developed an alternative therapeutic option intended to enhance the potential of rituximab with the support of other synergic drugs. We herein report the results of this therapeutic protocol (six administrations of rituximab plus two of intravenous cyclophosphamide plus glucocorticoids) in seven prospectively enrolled patients with extensive podocyte effacement and recurrent relapses or steroid dependence. Results Patients had a median baseline serum creatinine level of 2.2 mg/dl (range 1-4.7) that decreased to 1.1 mg/dl (range 0.9-2.2) and 1.1 mg/dl (range 0.75-2.21) after 3 and 6 months, respectively, and remained unchanged at 12 months. Three of five patients with renal failure turned to normal function while the other two patients maintained a stable impairment after 18 and 52 months. The median proteinuria decreased from 6.1 g/24 h to 3.5, 3.5 and 1.9 g/24 h at 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. Specifically, five of seven patients had a partial response at 12 months and became non-nephrotic. One of them had a complete response at 18 months and was still in complete remission at the last follow-up visit at 36 months. Proteinuria persisted unchanged in two of seven patients with a genetic-related disease. No serious late adverse events were observed. Conclusions Our results show that intensive B-cell depletion therapy is able to reverse the nephrotic syndrome of steroid-dependent or frequently relapsing adult patients with putatively idiopathic FSGS (i.e. with extensive podocyte effacement).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Baffa
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-Net, ERN-Reconnet and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, San Giovanni Bosco Hub Hospital, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Carla Naretto
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-Net, ERN-Reconnet and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, San Giovanni Bosco Hub Hospital, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Antonella Barreca
- Division of Pathology, Città della Salute e della Scienza Hospital and University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Raffaella Cravero
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, Ospedale degli Infermi, Biella, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Roscini
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, Casale Monferrato and Novi Ligure Hospitals, Alessandria, Italy
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Sans-Pola C, Danés I, Bosch JÀ, Marrero-Álvarez P, Cortés J, Agustí A. Off-label use of rituximab in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus with extrarenal disease activity: a retrospective study and literature review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1159794. [PMID: 37305139 PMCID: PMC10248418 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1159794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Off-label rituximab is commonly used for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with extrarenal disease activity. Methods The outcomes and tolerability of rituximab in adult patients with non-renal SLE treated at our hospital from 2013 to 2020 were described. Patients were followed-up until December 2021. Data were retrieved from electronic medical records. Response was classified into complete, partial or no response according to the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI 2 K)-based definitions. Results A total of 44 cycles were administered to 33 patients. Median age was 45 years and 97% were female. Median follow-up was 5.9 years (IQR 3.7-7.2). The most frequent symptoms that motivated rituximab use were thrombocytopenia (30.3%), arthritis (30.3%), neurological manifestations (24.2%) and cutaneous lupus (15.2%). After most treatment cycles a partial remission was achieved. The median SLEDAI-2 K score declined from 9 (IQR 5-13) to 1.5 (IQR 0-4) (p < 0.00001). The median number of flares significantly declined after receiving rituximab. Platelet counts significantly improved in patients with thrombocytopenia and patients with skin disorders or neurological manifestations also had a partial or complete response. Only 50% of patients with a predominant joint involvement had either a complete or a partial response. The median time to relapse after the first cycle was 1.6 years (95% CI, 0.6-3.1). Anti-dsDNA levels decreased significantly after rituximab from a median of 64.3 (IQR 12-373.9) to 32.7 (IQR 10-173), p = 0.00338. The most frequent adverse events were infusion-related reactions (18.2%) and infections (57.6%). All patients needed further treatment to maintain remission or to treat new flares. Conclusion A partial or complete response was documented after most rituximab cycles in patients with non-renal SLE. Patients with thrombocytopenia, neurolupus, and cutaneous lupus had better response than those with a predominant joint involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Sans-Pola
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
- Clinical Pharmacology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Immaculada Danés
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
- Clinical Pharmacology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Àngel Bosch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Patricia Marrero-Álvarez
- Pharmacy Department, Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josefina Cortés
- Department of Internal Medicine, Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antònia Agustí
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
- Clinical Pharmacology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Barcelona, Spain
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Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a devastating autoimmune disease that can result in substantial morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis and treatment of SLE are clinical challenges. Patient presentation and response to therapy are heterogeneous because of the complex immune dysregulation that results in SLE disease pathogenesis. An intricate interplay between genetic risk and skewing of adaptive and innate immune system responses leads to overproduction of type I interferons and other cytokines, complement activation, immune-complex deposition, and ultimately inflammation and tissue damage. Here, we review the classification criteria as well as standard and emerging diagnostic tools available to identify patients with SLE. We then focus on medical management, including novel therapeutics, nonpharmacologic interventions, and comorbidity management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Lazar
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;
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10
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Tanaka Y, Nakayamada S, Yamaoka K, Ohmura K, Yasuda S. Rituximab in the real-world treatment of lupus nephritis: A retrospective cohort study in Japan. Mod Rheumatol 2023; 33:145-153. [PMID: 35165714 DOI: 10.1093/mr/roac007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although recommended in established international guidelines for lupus nephritis (LN), rituximab is not officially approved for LN treatment, making all such use off-label. The Japan College of Rheumatology (JCR) conducted a retrospective observational study on real-world efficacy and safety of rituximab treatment for LN in Japan. METHODS Clinical data were collected from 47 hospitals for LN patients treated with rituximab to retrospectively investigate dosing schedule, efficacy, and safety. RESULTS This retrospective analysis included 115 patients: 84 (73%) received 375 mg/m2 weekly up to four doses, and 31 (27%) received 1000 mg/body in one or two doses 2 weeks apart. Rituximab significantly improved findings for urinalysis, systemic lupus erythematosus serology, and systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity and was assessed as 'extremely effective' in 24.8% of patients and 'effective' in 60.2%. The renal response by the JCR-I criteria was 52.5% for overall response rate (ORR) (complete renal response rate 20.8% and partial renal response rate 31.7%) and that by the JCR-II criteria was 49.5% (21.8% and 27.7%, respectively). Corticosteroid dose was significantly reduced. Rituximab was well tolerated, with frequent but manageable adverse events of infusion reaction and infection. CONCLUSIONS Rituximab is effective for the treatment of Japanese patients with LN refractory to conventional therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiya Tanaka
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Shingo Nakayamada
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Kunihiro Yamaoka
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Koichiro Ohmura
- Department of Rheumatology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Yasuda
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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Ly S, Nedosekin D, Wong HK. Review of an Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibody for the Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Skin. Am J Clin Dermatol 2023; 24:247-273. [PMID: 36630066 PMCID: PMC9838371 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-022-00751-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Biologic therapies targeting B-cells are emerging as an effective strategy to treat a variety of immune-mediated diseases. One of the most studied B-cell-targeted therapies is rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that exemplifies B-cell depletion therapy and has served as the prototype for other anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies and the development of biosimilars. While there are multiple studies on the use of rituximab in dermatology, a comprehensive review of rituximab therapy in autoimmune skin conditions is lacking. In this literature review, we summarize indications, treatment efficacy, and safety of rituximab among common autoimmune diseases of the skin: pemphigus vulgaris, cutaneous lupus erythematous, dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, thyroid dermopathy, autoimmune pemphigoid diseases, and cutaneous vasculitis diseases. Existing data on rituximab support the approach of rituximab, biosimilars, and newer B-cell-targeting therapies in immune-mediated cutaneous diseases. Overall, rituximab, which targets CD20, provides an effective alternative or concomitant option to traditional immunosuppressants in the management of various autoimmune diseases of the skin. Further studies are necessary to expand the understanding and possible utility of B-cell-targeted therapies among autoimmune skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Ly
- grid.241054.60000 0004 4687 1637College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR USA
| | - Dmitry Nedosekin
- grid.241054.60000 0004 4687 1637College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR USA
| | - Henry K. Wong
- grid.241054.60000 0004 4687 1637Department of Dermatology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Slot #576, Little Rock, AR 72205 USA
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12
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van Schaik M, Arends EJ, Soonawala D, van Ommen E, de Leeuw K, Limper M, van Paassen P, Huizinga TWJ, Toes REM, van Kooten C, Rotmans JI, Rabelink TJ, Teng YKO. Efficacy of belimumab combined with rituximab in severe systemic lupus erythematosus: study protocol for the phase 3, multicenter, randomized, open-label Synbiose 2 trial. Trials 2022; 23:939. [DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06874-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Belimumab, an anti-B-cell activating factor antibody, is approved for the treatment of auto-antibody positive systemic lupus erythematosus with a high degree of disease activity. Anti-CD20 B cell depletion with rituximab is used in refractory SLE as well, although with variable responses. We hypothesized that incomplete B cell depletion, related to a surge in BAFF levels following rituximab treatment, can cause ongoing disease activity and flares. The Synbiose 1 study primarily focused on immunological effects and shows the preliminary clinical benefit of combined rituximab and belimumab in SLE. The Synbiose 2 study will evaluate the clinical efficacy of combining belimumab with rituximab in patients with severe SLE, allowing the tapering of prednisolone and mycophenolate.
Methods
Synbiose 2 is a phase 3, multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label 2-year clinical trial. Seventy adults with severe SLE including lupus nephritis will be randomized 1:1 to receive either standard of care consisting of prednisolone and mycophenolate as induction and maintenance treatment, or belimumab and rituximab combined with standard of care as induction treatment, followed by prednisolone and belimumab as maintenance treatment. The primary objective is to assess whether combined B cell therapy will lead to a reduction of treatment failure. Secondary endpoints are complete and partial clinical and renal response and the improvement of SLE-specific autoimmune phenomena. Safety endpoints include the incidence of adverse events, with a special interest in infections.
Discussion
The Synbiose 2 trial is the first multicenter phase 3 clinical trial investigating combined B cell targeted therapy in SLE, including lupus nephritis. The outcome of this study will provide further evidence for the clinical efficacy of this new treatment strategy in severe SLE.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03747159. Registered on 20 November 2018.
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13
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Teng S, Tian Y, Luo N, Zheng Q, Shao M, Li L. Efficacy and safety of an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, rituximab, for lupus nephritis: A meta-analysis. Int J Rheum Dis 2021; 25:101-109. [PMID: 34811947 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy and safety of rituximab (RTX) for lupus nephritis are still a controversial issue. METHODS We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library databases for all clinical controlled studies. RESULTS Six studies with 588 patients were included in our meta-analysis. RTX increased total renal remission rates (TR, odds ratio [OR] 2.16, 95% CI 1.31 to 3.55, P = .003) and complete renal remission rate (CR, OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.18 to 4.94, P = .02) compared with the control group. Subgroup analyses showed that rituximab was more effective at increasing the rate of TR and CR for lupus nephritis patients compared with mycophenolate mofetil (TR, OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.29 to 16.47, P = .02; CR, OR 2.56, 95% CI 1.19 to 5.47, P = .02) and cyclophosphamide (TR, OR 2.89, 95% CI 1.31 to 6.40, P = .009; CR, OR 2.75, 95% CI 1.19 to 6.4, P = .02). Rituximab also had advantage in reducing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index score (-2.49, 95% CI -3.77 to -1.22, P = .0001). There were no significant differences between the RTX group and control group on the change of proteinuria (-0.36 g/d, 95% CI -0.71 to -0.00 g/d, P = .05) and serum creatinine (0.13 mg/dL, 95% CI -0.15 to 0.42 mg/dL, P = .36). RTX treatment did not increase the risk of adverse events compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS This study provides clear beneficial effects of RTX in patients with lupus nephritis. In addition, RTX therapy did not increase the risk of adverse events compared to the control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Teng
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yu Tian
- Department of Vascular Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Nan Luo
- Department of Infection, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qiang Zheng
- Department of Nursing, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Mingfang Shao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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14
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Rovin BH, Adler SG, Barratt J, Bridoux F, Burdge KA, Chan TM, Cook HT, Fervenza FC, Gibson KL, Glassock RJ, Jayne DR, Jha V, Liew A, Liu ZH, Mejía-Vilet JM, Nester CM, Radhakrishnan J, Rave EM, Reich HN, Ronco P, Sanders JSF, Sethi S, Suzuki Y, Tang SC, Tesar V, Vivarelli M, Wetzels JF, Floege J. KDIGO 2021 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Glomerular Diseases. Kidney Int 2021; 100:S1-S276. [PMID: 34556256 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2021.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 777] [Impact Index Per Article: 259.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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15
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Gisca E, Duarte L, Farinha F, Isenberg DA. Assessing outcomes in a lupus nephritis cohort over a 40-year period. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:1814-1822. [PMID: 33111137 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterize a LN cohort over 40 years, assessing its evolution, analysing two major outcomes: the development of end-stage renal disease and mortality rates in the first 5 years after LN diagnosis. METHODS An observational retrospective study of patients with LN, followed up from 1975 at University College Hospital. Patients were divided into four groups, depending on the decade of LN diagnosis: 1975-1985 (D1), 1986-1995 (D2), 1996-2005 (D3) and 2006-2015 (D4). Comparison between groups was performed with respect to demographic, clinical, serological and histological characteristics and outcome. RESULTS Two hundred and nineteen patients with LN were studied. There was a change in ethnic distribution, with a decreasing proportion of Caucasians (58.6% in D1 to 31.3% in D4, P = 0.018) and increase in African-ancestry (17.2% in D1 to 39.6% in D4, P = 0.040). Serological and histological patterns changed throughout time, with a reduction in class IV nephritis (51.7% in D1 to 27.1% in D4, P = 0.035), and increase in class II nephritis (10% in D2 to 18.8% in D4, P = 0.01) and anti-extractable nuclear antigen antibody positivity (17.2% in D1 to 83.3% in D4, P = 0.0001). The 5-year mortality rates decreased from D1 (24.1%) to D2 (4%), stabilizing for the next 30 years. The 5-year progression to end-stage renal disease remained stable over the decades. CONCLUSION Despite the changes in treatment of LN in the past 20 years, we have reached a plateau in 5-year mortality and progression to end-stage renal disease rates, suggesting that new therapeutic and management approaches, and strategies to enhance adherence, are needed to improve outcomes further in LN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugeniu Gisca
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - Leila Duarte
- Internal Medicine Department - Medicina II, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa-Norte, Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Filipa Farinha
- Centre for Rheumatology, University College London, London, UK
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16
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Papachristos DA, Oon S, Hanly JG, Nikpour M. Management of inflammatory neurologic and psychiatric manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 51:49-71. [PMID: 33360230 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2020.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neurological and psychiatric manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) are a heterogeneous group of conditions with variable clinical presentation and significant morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVES Our aim was to comprehensively assess and present the evidence for treatments used in the management of inflammatory NPSLE. METHODS Medline, Embase, CINHAL and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from 1990 to end of March 2019 using key words that related to NPSLE and treatment. Included studies comprised clinical trials, observational studies or case series with ≥5 patients and sufficient data related to treatment and outcome in NPSLE patients. RESULTS There were 7222 studies identified in the search, of which 90 were included in the review. There was a notable paucity of clinical trials, with only two randomised controlled trials and one pilot study. Treatment categories included corticosteroids (14 studies), cyclophosphamide (18 studies), synthetic DMARDs (7 studies), biologic therapies (14 studies), therapeutic plasma exchange (6 studies), intravenous immunoglobulin (2 studies), autologous stem cell transplant (3 studies), other therapies (8 studies), combination therapies (6 studies), studies with grouped outcome data (5 studies) and observational studies with therapy-specific associations (7 studies). Corticosteroids are accepted as first line treatment in NPSLE and there is low-moderate evidence supporting their benefit. Moderate evidence, based on consistent data in numerous studies and some trial data, supports the use of cyclophosphamide in the treatment of NPSLE. Limited data support some synthetic DMARDs such as mycophenolate, azathioprine and intrathecal methotrexate. In refractory disease, low-moderate evidence supports rituximab therapy and limited evidence supports benefit following autologous stem cell transplant. Regarding adjuvant treatments, limited evidence favours addition of plasma exchange, intravenous immunoglobulin and hydroxychloroquine. There exists very limited data for other therapies. CONCLUSION There are multiple therapeutic options for the management of inflammatory NPSLE including systemic, biologic and interventional therapies; however, currently there is a paucity of high-quality trial data to guide firm recommendations. In order to better understand the optimal treatment of NPSLE and its different subtypes, further well-designed clinical trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Papachristos
- Department of Rheumatology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - S Oon
- Department of Rheumatology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Department of Rheumatology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia
| | - J G Hanly
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine and Department of Pathology, Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Center and Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - M Nikpour
- Department of Rheumatology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Australia.
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Ilizaliturri-Guerra O, Uriarte-Botello R, Pineda-Sic RÁ, Serna-Peña G, Garza-Elizondo MA, Galarza-Delgado DÁ, Leal-Bramasco AS, Elizondo-Solís CV, Santoyo-Fexas L, Villarreal-Alarcón MÁ. Low-dose rituximab therapy in steroid-refractory thrombocytopenia due to systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatol Int 2020; 40:1717-1724. [PMID: 32797277 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-020-04668-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease, characterized by multi-organ symptomatology. 16% of the patients with autoimmune thrombocytopenia have SLE and are associated with high mortality. Intravenous methylprednisolone or high-dose steroids are the first-line treatments in those patients who experienced life-threatening bleeding or have a severely low platelet count, whereas a second line includes splenectomy, as well as other immunosuppressive agents as monotherapy or combined therapy, including azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, and mycophenolate mofetil. However, response rates of these therapies vary considerably. Rituximab (RTX) became a useful tool in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, due to the decrease of autoantibodies production. In addition, there is evidence that low doses of RTX (100 mg IV per week for 4 weeks) can have a similar effect compared to the standard dose. The objective of this study was to describe the response to low doses of RTX in patients with lupus-induced thrombocytopenia. We present a report of four female patients with newly diagnosed SLE, accompanied by purpuric syndrome and severe thrombocytopenia (< 30 × 109/L) as the clinical debut that was refractory to glucocorticoids (GC) therapy and treated with low doses of RTX. By week 5, complete response (> 100 × 109/L) was achieved in two patients, partial response (> 50 × 109/L) in 1 patient, and no response in one patient. There is little information on the treatment of SLE-associated autoimmune thrombocytopenia. The most extensive study found at the time of our search was the study of 10 Asian patients. They found that 80% of the patients responded by week four and maintained until week 24 of follow-up. At week 36, a follow-up for two patients showed relapse; this occurred on patients with the most disease duration (> 5 years) and was associated with a lower response rate. In contrast, our study with four patients found that half of them presented a complete response: one patient added concomitant therapy with azathioprine (AZA) and another patient without the concomitant therapy. A third patient with a partial improvement, this was seen by week five of treatment. Moreover, a fourth patient who did not have a response by week five of treatment presented a clinical response in subsequent appointments with a count of > 100 at week 24. Those patients who required concomitant use of AZA were patients who had positive antiphospholipid serology. The use of low-dose RTX for the management of severe thrombocytopenia refractory to GC in patients with SLE has a good response. It could be a safe, economical, and effective therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavio Ilizaliturri-Guerra
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - Rodolfo Uriarte-Botello
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - Rita Ángelica Pineda-Sic
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - Griselda Serna-Peña
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - Mario Alberto Garza-Elizondo
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - Dionicio Ángel Galarza-Delgado
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - Ana Sofía Leal-Bramasco
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - César Vidal Elizondo-Solís
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - Leticia Santoyo-Fexas
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México
| | - Miguel Ángel Villarreal-Alarcón
- Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Av. Gonzalitos No. 235 Nte, Col. Mitras Centro, Monterrey, Nuevo León, C.P. 64460, México.
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Kaneko Y, Fukahori H, Yamagami K, Kawashima T, Ito M, Akamatsu M, Marui T, Kato K, Takahashi F, Morokata T. Effects of AS2819899, a novel selective PI3Kδ inhibitor, in a NZB/W F1 mouse lupus-like nephritis model. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 87:106764. [PMID: 32736191 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Phosphoinositide 3-kinases generate lipid-based second messengers that control an array of intracellular signaling pathways. In particular, phosphoinositide 3-kinases delta (PI3Kδ) is expressed primarily in hematopoietic cells and plays an important role in B-cell development and function. B cells play a critical role in autoimmune diseases by producing autoantibodies. Studies have therefore increasingly focused on PI3Kδ as a therapeutic target for the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. One such autoimmune disease is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease with repeated recurrence and remission, and autoantibodies play an important role in its pathogenesis. Here, we examined the pharmacological profile of the novel PI3Kδ selective inhibitor AS2819899 and investigated its therapeutic potential against SLE in a NZB/W F1 mouse lupus-like nephritis model, a widely-used SLE mouse model. AS2819899 prevented B and T cell activation in vitro, and inhibited antibody production in a T-cell independent de novo antibody production mouse model. In the spontaneous NZB/W F1 mouse model, AS2819899 treatment significantly reduced anti-dsDNA antibody titers and improved kidney dysfunction. Further, AS2819899 inhibited the memory recall reaction in a T-cell dependent antibody production mouse model, suggesting that AS2819899 can potentially maintain remission of SLE. Moreover, we identified a pharmacodynamics marker for AS2819899 that may be useful in clinical studies. These results indicate that AS2819899 may be an attractive therapeutic candidate for SLE, including the maintenance of remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Kaneko
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan.
| | - Hidehiko Fukahori
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - Kaoru Yamagami
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - Tomoko Kawashima
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - Misato Ito
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - Masahiko Akamatsu
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - Takanori Marui
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - Koji Kato
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - Fumie Takahashi
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - Tatsuaki Morokata
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukigaoka, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
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Wise LM, Stohl W. Belimumab and Rituximab in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Tale of Two B Cell-Targeting Agents. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:303. [PMID: 32695790 PMCID: PMC7338653 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the centrality of B cells to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), it stands to reason that a candidate therapeutic agent that targets B cells could be efficacious. Both rituximab, a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that binds to CD20 on the surface of B cells, and belimumab, a mAb that binds and neutralizes the B cell survival factor BAFF, have been extensively studied for the treatment of SLE. Despite the greater ability of rituximab to deplete B cells than that of belimumab, randomized controlled trials of rituximab in SLE failed to reach their primary clinical endpoints, whereas the primary clinical endpoints were reached in four independent phase-III clinical trials of belimumab in SLE. Accordingly, belimumab has been approved for treatment of SLE, whereas use of rituximab in SLE remains off-label. Nevertheless, several case series of rituximab have pointed to some utility for rituximab in treating SLE. In this review, we provide a concise summary of the factors that led to belimumab's success in SLE as well an analysis of the elements that may have contributed to the lack of success seen in the rituximab randomized controlled trials in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanna M Wise
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - William Stohl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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20
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Robinson MJ, Webster RH, Tarlinton DM. How intrinsic and extrinsic regulators of plasma cell survival might intersect for durable humoral immunity. Immunol Rev 2020; 296:87-103. [DOI: 10.1111/imr.12895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marcus J. Robinson
- Department of Immunology & Pathology Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct Monash University Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - Rosela H. Webster
- Department of Immunology & Pathology Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct Monash University Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - David M. Tarlinton
- Department of Immunology & Pathology Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct Monash University Melbourne Vic. Australia
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21
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Hoyer BF. Neue Therapien beim systemischen Lupus erythematodes. Z Rheumatol 2020; 79:342-350. [DOI: 10.1007/s00393-020-00788-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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23
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Acquired Immunodeficiency from Maternal Chemotherapy and Severe Primary Pneumocystis Infection in an Infant. Case Rep Pediatr 2020; 2020:5740304. [PMID: 32257491 PMCID: PMC7102488 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5740304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pneumocystis jirovecii is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen in immunosuppressed patients. We report a case of severe Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in an infant with acquired combined immunodeficiency secondary to maternal chemotherapy exposure during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. The infant required cardiorespiratory support with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) for severe respiratory failure. This case highlights the potential for severe acquired immunodeficiency in this patient cohort and further postnatal surveillance is highly recommended.
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Nasonov EL, Beketova TV, Ananyeva LP, Vasilyev VI, Solovyev SK, Avdeeva AS. PROSPECTS FOR ANTI-B-CELL THERAPY IN IMMUNO-INFLAMMATORY RHEUMATIC DISEASES. RHEUMATOLOGY SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2019. [DOI: 10.14412/1995-4484-2019-3-40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E L. Nasonov
- V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Ministry of Health of Russia
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Ghiggeri GM, D’Alessandro M, Bartolomeo D, Degl’Innocenti ML, Magnasco A, Lugani F, Prunotto M, Bruschi M. An Update on Antibodies to Necleosome Components as Biomarkers of Sistemic Lupus Erythematosus and of Lupus Flares. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225799. [PMID: 31752186 PMCID: PMC6888059 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with variable clinical expression. It is a potentially devastating condition affecting mostly women and leading to clinically unpredictable outcomes. Remission and flares may, in fact, alternate over time and a mild involvement limited to few articular sites may be followed by severe and widespread organ damage. SLE is the prototype of any autoimmune condition and has, for this reason, attracted the interest of basic immunologists. Therapies have evolved over time and clinical prognosis has, in parallel, been improved. What clinicians still lack is the possibility to use biomarkers of the disease as predictors of outcome and, in this area, several studies are trying to find solutions. Circulating autoantibodies are clearly a milestone of clinical research and the concrete possibility is to integrate, in the future, classical markers of activation (like C3) with target organ autoantibodies. Anti-dsDNA antibodies represent a basic point in any predictive attempt in SLE and should be considered the benchmark for any innovative proposal in the wide field of target organ pathologies related to SLE. DNA is part of the nucleosome that is the basic unit of chromatin. It consists of DNA wrapped around a histone octamer made of 2 copies each of Histone 2A, 2B, 3, and 4. The nucleosome has a plastic organization that varies over time and has the potential to stimulate the formation of antibodies directed to the whole structure (anti-nucleosome) or its parts (anti-dsDNA and anti-Histones). Here, we present an updated review of the literature on antibodies directed to the nucleosome and the nucleosome constituents, i.e., DNA and Histones. Wetriedto merge the data first published more than twenty years ago with more recent results to create a balanced bridge between old dogma and more recent research that could serve as a stimulus to reconsider mechanisms for SLE. The formation of large networks would provide the chance of studying large cohorts of patients and confirm what already presented in small sample size during the last years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gian Marco Ghiggeri
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Istituto G. Gaslini, Largo G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy (D.B.); (A.M.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Nephrology, Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care, IRCCS IstitutoGianninaGaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (F.L.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: (+39)-010-380742; Fax: (+39)-010-395214
| | - Matteo D’Alessandro
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Istituto G. Gaslini, Largo G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy (D.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Domenico Bartolomeo
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Istituto G. Gaslini, Largo G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy (D.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Maria Ludovica Degl’Innocenti
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Istituto G. Gaslini, Largo G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy (D.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Alberto Magnasco
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Istituto G. Gaslini, Largo G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy (D.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Francesca Lugani
- Laboratory of Molecular Nephrology, Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care, IRCCS IstitutoGianninaGaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (F.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Prunotto
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Maurizio Bruschi
- Laboratory of Molecular Nephrology, Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care, IRCCS IstitutoGianninaGaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (F.L.); (M.B.)
- Fondazione per le MalattieRenalinel Bambino, 16100 Genoa, Italy
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Quelhas da Costa R, Aguirre-Alastuey ME, Isenberg DA, Saracino AM. Assessment of Response to B-Cell Depletion Using Rituximab in Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus. JAMA Dermatol 2019; 154:1432-1440. [PMID: 30383114 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2018.3793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Importance Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) can be severe and treatment resistant. B-cell depletion therapy (BCDT) with rituximab is well recognized in organ involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but its efficacy in cutaneous manifestations is less well established. Objective To evaluate the outcomes of BCDT in CLE and its clinical subtypes in the setting of associated SLE. Design, Setting, and Participants This single-center, retrospective, cohort study was performed at the adult tertiary referral Rheumatology Department of University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom, from January 1, 2000, through March 31, 2016, with 12-month follow-up completed on March 31, 2017. Adult patients with carefully classified CLE and mucocutaneous British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) grade A or B who were treated with rituximab BCDT were selected from a prospective database of 709 patients with SLE. Data were analyzed from April through December 2017. Main Outcomes and Measures Clinical response was examined at 6 and 12 months after treatment for CLE and its subtypes acute CLE (ACLE), subacute CLE (SCLE), chronic CLE (CCLE), and nonspecific LE (NSLE). A complete response was defined as achieving BILAG grade D; partial response, BILAG grade C; stable disease, no change; and disease flare, change from BILAG grade C or D to grade A or B. Results A total of 50 patients with SLE were eligible for inclusion; mean (SD) age at diagnosis was 26.9 (12.1) years, and 49 (98%) were women. Twenty-one patients had ACLE; 6, SCLE; 10, CCLE; and 11, NSLE (including 2 with concurrent ACLE and CCLE). Overall, at 6 months, 38 patients (76%) improved their mucocutaneous BILAG grade A or B status, including 20 (40%) with a complete response. At 12 months, 28 of 46 patients (61%) maintained this response, including 24 (52%) with a complete response. Two of 6 patients (33%) with SCLE showed a complete response at 6 and 12 months. Five of 12 patients (42%) with CCLE showed a complete response at 6 months, and 5 of 11 (45%), at 12 months. Fifteen patients (30%) required further rituximab therapy within 12 months for cutaneous involvement. Conclusions and Relevance B-cell depletion therapy using rituximab appears effective in patients with SLE and severe active CLE; however, outcomes are variable in those with SCLE and CCLE subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Quelhas da Costa
- Department of Rheumatology, University College London Hospital, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Elena Aguirre-Alastuey
- Department of Rheumatology, University College London Hospital, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Internal Medicine, Compleio Asistencial Universitario de León, León, Spain
| | - David A Isenberg
- Department of Rheumatology, University College London Hospital, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda M Saracino
- Department of Rheumatology, University College London Hospital, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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27
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Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune rheumatic disease with a prevalence of approximately 1 in 1000. Over the last 30 years, advances in treatment such as use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants have improved life expectancy and quality of life for patients with lupus and the key unmet needs have therefore changed. With the reduced mortality from disease activity, development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has become an increasingly important cause of death in patients with SLE. The increased CVD risk in these patients is partly, but not fully explained by standard risk factors, and abnormalities in the immune response to lipids may play a role. Invariant natural killer T cells, which are triggered specifically by lipid antigens, may protect against progression of subclinical atherosclerosis. However, currently our recommendation is that clinicians should focus on optimal management of standard CVD risk factors such as smoking, blood pressure and lipid levels. Fatigue is one of the most common and most limiting symptoms suffered by patients with SLE. The cause of fatigue is multifactorial and disease activity does not explain this symptom. Consequently, therapies directed towards reducing inflammation and disease activity do not reliably reduce fatigue and new approaches are needed. Currently, we recommend asking about sleep pattern, optimising pain relief and excluding other causes of fatigue such as anaemia and metabolic disturbances. For the subgroup of patients whose disease activity is not fully controlled by standard treatment regimes, a range of different biologic agents have been proposed and subjected to clinical trials. Many of these trials have given disappointing results, though belimumab, which targets B lymphocytes, did meet its primary endpoint. New biologics targeting B cells, T cells or cytokines (especially interferon) are still going through trials raising the hope that novel therapies for patients with refractory SLE may be available soon.
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28
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Crayne CB, Eloseily E, Mannion ML, Azerf SP, Weiser P, Beukelman T, Stoll ML, Feig DI, Prescott Atkinson T, Cron RQ. Rituximab treatment for chronic steroid-dependent Henoch-Schonlein purpura: 8 cases and a review of the literature. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2018; 16:71. [PMID: 30428889 PMCID: PMC6236882 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-018-0285-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a small vessel vasculitis that is characterized by non-thrombocytopenic purpura, abdominal pain, arthritis, and glomerulonephritis. Typically, HSP is self-limited requiring only supportive care, but more severe cases may require corticosteroid (CS) treatment. Rarely, a subset of these patients has persistent rash, arthritis, abdominal involvement, or renal disease despite treatment with CS, or has disease recurrence on CS tapering. Refractory HSP has been effectively treated with a variety of CS sparing therapies. For life-threatening refractory HSP, the B cell depleting agent, rituximab (RTX), has been reported as beneficial for children with substantial renal or central nervous system involvement. However, RTX use for children with less severe HSP, but chronic CS dependent disease refractory to CS sparing immunomodulatory agents, has been less well explored. Herein, we describe 8 children treated with RTX for chronic refractory HSP and report a reduction in recurrent hospitalizations and eventual CS discontinuation. METHODS This is a retrospective analysis of eight children who were treated with RTX for chronic CS dependent HSP during the years 2006-2014 at a single institution. A chart review of the electronic medical record was performed to determine the presenting symptoms, the type and duration of treatment received, and the number of hospitalizations prior to and after RTX. The number of hospitalizations and oral corticosteroid burden were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. RESULTS Prior to receiving RTX, seven patients had at least one hospitalization for HSP (median 1.5, range 0-3). Following RTX, only two patients were hospitalized, each a single time for recurrent abdominal pain. The median oral CS burden was 0.345 mg/kg/day before RTX and 0 mg/kg/day at 6 months (p = 0.078), 1 year (p = 0.0625), and 2 years (p = 0.03) following RTX infusion. Seven out of eight children met remission criteria, defined as no active rash, arthritis, nephritis (hematuria and proteinuria), or gastrointestinal distress following RTX. No serious adverse events were noted. CONCLUSION Overall, RTX effectively reduced the number of hospital admissions and oral CS burden. RTX also helped most all children achieve clinical remission. RTX appears to be an effective and safe alternative for chronic CS dependent and immunomodulatory refractory childhood HSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney B. Crayne
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, CPPN G10, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - Esraa Eloseily
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, CPPN G10, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - Melissa L. Mannion
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, CPPN G10, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - Saji P. Azerf
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 510 20th St S, #12, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - Peter Weiser
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, CPPN G10, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - Timothy Beukelman
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, CPPN G10, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - Matthew L. Stoll
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, CPPN G10, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - Daniel I. Feig
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, ACC 516, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - T. Prescott Atkinson
- 0000000106344187grid.265892.2Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, CPPN M20, Birmingham, AL 35233 USA
| | - Randy Quentin Cron
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave S, CPPN G10, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA.
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29
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Hale M, Rawlings DJ, Jackson SW. The long and the short of it: insights into the cellular source of autoantibodies as revealed by B cell depletion therapy. Curr Opin Immunol 2018; 55:81-88. [PMID: 30390507 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2018.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
High titers of pathogenic autoantibodies are a hallmark of many autoimmune diseases. However, much remains unknown about the self-reactive plasma cells that are key mediators of disease. We propose a model in which the varying efficacy of precursor B cell depletion for the treatment of humoral autoimmunity can be explained by differences in the relative contributions of pathogenic antibodies by short-lived versus long-lived plasma cells. Beyond therapeutic considerations, this model suggests that we can infer the cellular source of disease-associated autoantibodies by the durability of serum titers following B cell depletion. Data from clinical trials and animal models across different autoimmune diseases may provide useful insights into the lifespan, lifestyle and fate of autoreactive plasma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malika Hale
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - David J Rawlings
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States; Department of Immunology, University of Washington, School of Medicine, United States; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, School of Medicine, United States
| | - Shaun W Jackson
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, School of Medicine, United States.
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30
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McCarthy EM, Sutton E, Nesbit S, White J, Parker B, Jayne D, Griffiths B, Isenberg DA, Rahman A, Gordon C, D'Cruz DP, Rhodes B, Lanyon P, Vital EM, Yee CS, Edwards CJ, Teh LS, Akil M, McHugh NJ, Zoma A, Bruce IN. Short-term efficacy and safety of rituximab therapy in refractory systemic lupus erythematosus: results from the British Isles Lupus Assessment Group Biologics Register. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 57:470-479. [PMID: 29216396 PMCID: PMC5850287 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kex395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To describe the baseline characteristics of SLE patients requiring biologic therapy in the UK and to explore short term efficacy and infection rates associated with rituximab (RTX) use. Methods Patients commencing biologic therapy for refractory SLE and who consented to join BILAG-BR were analysed. Baseline characteristics, disease activity (BILAG 2004/SLEDAI-2K) and rates of infection over follow-up were analysed. Response was defined as loss of all A and B BILAG scores to ⩽ 1 B score with no new A/B scores in other organ systems at 6 months. Results Two hundred and seventy SLE patients commenced biologic therapy from September 2010 to September 2015, most commonly RTX (n = 261). Two hundred and fifty (93%) patients were taking glucocorticoids at baseline at a median [interquartile range (IQR)] oral dose of 10 mg (5–20 mg) daily. Response rates at 6 months were available for 68% of patients. The median (IQR) BILAG score was 15 (10–23) at baseline and 3 (2–12) at 6 months (P < 0.0001). The median (IQR) SLEDAI-2K reduced from 8 (5–12) to 4 (0–7) (P < 0.001). Response was achieved in 49% of patients. There was also a reduction in glucocorticoid use to a median (IQR) dose of 7.5 mg (5–12 mg) at 6 months (P < 0.001). Serious infections occurred in 26 (10%) patients, being more frequent in the first 3 months post-RTX therapy. A higher proportion of early infections were non-respiratory (odds ratio = 1.98, 95% CI: 0.99, 3.9; P = 0.049). Conclusion RTX is safe and is associated with improvement in disease activity in refractory SLE patients with concomitant reductions in glucocorticoid use. Early vigilance for infection post-infusion is important to further improve treatment risks and benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eoghan M McCarthy
- The Kellgren Centre for Rheumatology, NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester
| | - Emily Sutton
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester
| | - Stephanie Nesbit
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester
| | - James White
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester
| | - Ben Parker
- The Kellgren Centre for Rheumatology, NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester.,Division of Musculoskeletal & Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester
| | - David Jayne
- Department of Medicine, Addenbooke's Hospital, Cambridge
| | | | - David A Isenberg
- Division of Rheumatology, University College London, Rayne Institute, London
| | - Anisur Rahman
- Division of Rheumatology, University College London, Rayne Institute, London
| | - Caroline Gordon
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham.,Rheumatology Department, City Hospital, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham
| | | | - Benjamin Rhodes
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Old Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham
| | - Peter Lanyon
- Rheumatology Department, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham
| | - Edward M Vital
- Leeds Institute for Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds.,NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Unit, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds
| | - Chee-Seng Yee
- Department of Rheumatology, Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Doncaster
| | - Christopher J Edwards
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, NIHR Wellcome Trust Clinical Research facility, The University of Southampton.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton
| | - Lee-Suan Teh
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Blackburn Hospital, Blackburn
| | - Mohammed Akil
- Rheumatology Department, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Neil J McHugh
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases and Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, Bath, UK.,Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Asad Zoma
- Rheumatology Department, Hairmyres Hospital, Lanarkshire, UK
| | - Ian N Bruce
- The Kellgren Centre for Rheumatology, NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester.,Arthritis Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester
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31
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Hofmann K, Clauder AK, Manz RA. Targeting B Cells and Plasma Cells in Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2018; 9:835. [PMID: 29740441 PMCID: PMC5924791 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Success with B cell depletion using rituximab has proven the concept that B lineage cells represent a valid target for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, and has promoted the development of other B cell targeting agents. Present data confirm that B cell depletion is beneficial in various autoimmune disorders and also show that it can worsen the disease course in some patients. These findings suggest that B lineage cells not only produce pathogenic autoantibodies, but also significantly contribute to the regulation of inflammation. In this review, we will discuss the multiple pro- and anti-inflammatory roles of B lineage cells play in autoimmune diseases, in the context of recent findings using B lineage targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Hofmann
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Luebeck, Luebeck, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Ann-Katrin Clauder
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Luebeck, Luebeck, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Rudolf Armin Manz
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Luebeck, Luebeck, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
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32
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La/SSB chimeric autoantibody receptor modified NK92MI cells for targeted therapy of autoimmune disease. Clin Immunol 2018; 192:40-49. [PMID: 29673902 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Revised: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
It has been long sought to specifically eliminate B-cell clones that generate autoreactive antibodies, while sparing the immune system when combating autoimmune disease. Although it was impossible to achieve this goal before, newly developed techniques have made it feasible today. Autoantibodies against La/SSB were involved in several autoimmune diseases. Here, we aimed to introduce La/SSB epitope-based chimeric autoantibody receptors (CAAR) into NK92MI cells enabled it to destroy the corresponding La/SSB-specific B cell receptor (BCR) -bearing lymphoma cells (LaA-BCR-Romas, LaA-BCR-Maver-1, and LaA-BCR-Jurkat cells). Such cell lines could eliminate a part of the B-cells in the blood of patients positive for anti-La/SSB antibodies. The CAAR we used in this study was constructed by fusing fragments from the nucleus protein, La/SSB, with the TCR signaling molecules, CD28, CD137, and CD3ζ. Thus, this method could specifically destroy the La/SSB autoreactive B-cell clones. Our results might provide a new strategy to combat antibody-mediated autoimmune diseases.
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33
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Iwata S, Saito K, Hirata S, Ohkubo N, Nakayamada S, Nakano K, Hanami K, Kubo S, Miyagawa I, Yoshikawa M, Miyazaki Y, Yoshinari H, Tanaka Y. Efficacy and safety of anti-CD20 antibody rituximab for patients with refractory systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2018; 27:802-811. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203317749047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
Objective We examined the efficacy and safety of rituximab in patients with refractory systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods The study enrolled 63 SLE patients who were treated with rituximab between 2002 and 2015. The participants underwent a battery of tests before treatment and at one year. Treatment ranged from two to four times at 500 or 1000 mg. Results Baseline characteristics were males:females = 6:57, age 33.9 years, and disease duration 87.2 months. The primary endpoint: The rate of major clinical response (MCR) was 60% while the partial clinical response (PCR) was 25%. Thirty of 36 (83%) patients with lupus nephritis (WHO II: 2, III: 5, IV: 22, V: 4, IV+V: 2, not assessed: 1) and 22 of 24 patients (92%) with neuropsychiatric SLE, who could be followed at one year, showed changes from BILAG A or B score to C or D score at one year. Multivariate analysis identified high anti-dsDNA antibody and shorter disease duration as significant determinants of MCR at one year. Repeat examination was conducted at five years. Primary failure was recorded in 8.8% and secondary failure in 32.4% (time to relapse: 24.4 months). Rituximab was well tolerated although 65 adverse events, mostly infections, were recorded within one year. Conclusion Rituximab is potentially efficacious for the treatment of patients with refractory SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Iwata
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - K Saito
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - S Hirata
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - N Ohkubo
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - S Nakayamada
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - K Nakano
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - K Hanami
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - S Kubo
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - I Miyagawa
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - M Yoshikawa
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Y Miyazaki
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - H Yoshinari
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Y Tanaka
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational & Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
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34
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Sanz I. Systemic lupus erythematosus: Extent and patterns of off-label use of rituximab for SLE. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2018; 12:700-702. [PMID: 27872475 DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum.2016.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Iñaki Sanz
- Emory University, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
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35
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Hedrich CM, Smith EMD, Beresford MW. Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (jSLE) - Pathophysiological concepts and treatment options. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2018; 31:488-504. [PMID: 29773269 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The systemic autoimmune/inflammatory condition systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) manifests before the age of 16 years in 10-20% of all cases. Clinical courses are more severe, and organ complications are more common in patients with juvenile SLE. Varying gender distribution in different age groups and increasing severity with younger age and the presence of monogenic disease in early childhood indicate distinct differences in the pathophysiology of juvenile versus adult-onset SLE. Regardless of these differences, classification criteria and treatment options are identical. In this article, we discuss age-specific pathomechanisms of juvenile-onset SLE, which are currently available and as future treatment options, and propose reclassification of different forms of SLE along the inflammatory spectrum from autoinflammation to autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian M Hedrich
- Department of Women's & Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Eve M D Smith
- Department of Women's & Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michael W Beresford
- Department of Women's & Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool, UK
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Colla L, Diena D, Rossetti M, Manzione AM, Marozio L, Benedetto C, Biancone L. Immunosuppression in pregnant women with renal disease: review of the latest evidence in the biologics era. J Nephrol 2018; 31:361-383. [DOI: 10.1007/s40620-018-0477-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Alshaiki F, Obaid E, Almuallim A, Taha R, El-Haddad H, Almoallim H. Outcomes of rituximab therapy in refractory lupus: A meta-analysis. Eur J Rheumatol 2018; 5:118-126. [PMID: 30185361 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2018.17096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Conventional treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN) is associated with damage accrual, hence increased morbidity rate. Off-label use of rituximab (RTX) has shown significant promise in this patient group; however, data are still controversial. We aimed to analyze the outcomes of RTX therapy in refractory lupus using a meta-analysis approach. METHODS Electronic search of the medical literature was conducted using a combination of relevant keywords to retrieve studies on the safety and efficacy of RTX in SLE and LN patients. Results were screened against our inclusion and exclusion criteria and two reviewers independently extracted the data for analysis. Comprehensive meta-analysis software was used to pool the data from individual studies and provide summary effect estimates. RESULTS Thirty-one studies that enrolled 1112 patients were finally eligible for the meta-analysis. The overall global, complete, and partial response rates to RTX therapy were 72%, 46%, and 32%, respectively. RTX significantly decreased Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and British Isles Lupus Activity Group (BILAG) scores (p<0.001). Prednisone dose was significantly reduced after RTX treatment in both SLE and LN groups (p<0.001), and proteinuria was lowered in SLE (p<0.001) than in LN patients (p=0.07). Infection and infusion-related reactions were the most common side effects. CONCLUSION RTX therapy in refractory SLE and LN patients proved clinical efficacy and favorable safety outcomes. Larger well-designed randomized clinical trials are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Alshaiki
- Department of Medicine, East Jeddah Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elaf Obaid
- Department of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University School of Medicine, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulqader Almuallim
- Department of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University School of Medicine, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabab Taha
- Department of Medicine, Dr. Sloiman Fakeeh Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hadeel El-Haddad
- Department of Medicine, Dr. Sloiman Fakeeh Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani Almoallim
- Department of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University School of Medicine, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medicine, Dr. Sloiman Fakeeh Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Alzaidi Chair of Research in Rheumatic Diseases, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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Han SH. Vaccination for Patients with Rheumatic Diseases in the Era of Biologics. JOURNAL OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES 2018. [DOI: 10.4078/jrd.2018.25.2.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Hoon Han
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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40
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He J, Li Z. An era of biological treatment in systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Rheumatol 2017; 37:1-3. [PMID: 29234909 PMCID: PMC5754454 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-017-3933-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Revised: 11/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jing He
- Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Peking University People's Hospital, 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Zhanguo Li
- Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Peking University People's Hospital, 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, China.
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Schioppo T, Ingegnoli F. Current perspective on rituximab in rheumatic diseases. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2017; 11:2891-2904. [PMID: 29042750 PMCID: PMC5633295 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s139248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The steadily increasing knowledge regarding pathogenetic mechanisms in autoimmune rheumatic diseases has paved the way to different therapeutic approaches. In particular, the market entry of biologics has dramatically modified the natural history of rheumatic chronic inflammatory diseases with a meaningful impact on patients’ quality of life. Among the wide spectrum of available biological treatments, rituximab (RTX), first used in the treatment of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, was later approved for rheumatoid arthritis and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies-associated vasculitis. Nowadays, in rheumatology, RTX is also used with off-label indications in patients with systemic sclerosis, Sjögren’s syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus. RTX is a monoclonal antibody directed to CD20 molecules expressed on the surfaces of pre-B and mature B lymphocytes. It acts by causing apoptosis of these cells with antibody- and complement-dependent cytotoxicity. As inflammatory responses to cell-associated immune complexes are key elements in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune rheumatic diseases, such an approach might be effective in these patients. In fact, RTX, by promoting the rapid and long-term depletion of circulating and lymphoid tissue-associated B cells, leads to a lower recruitment of these effector cells at sites of immune complex deposition, thus reducing inflammation and tissue damage. RTX is of the most interest to rheumatologists as it represents an important additional therapeutic approach. Thus, the advent in clinical practice of approved RTX biosimilars, such as CT-P10, may be of help in improving treatment access as well as in reducing costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Schioppo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Division of Rheumatology, ASST Pini, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Francesca Ingegnoli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Division of Rheumatology, ASST Pini, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Kim YY, Park KT, Jang SY, Lee KH, Byun JY, Suh KH, Lee YM, Kim YH, Hwang KW. HM71224, a selective Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor, attenuates the development of murine lupus. Arthritis Res Ther 2017; 19:211. [PMID: 28950886 PMCID: PMC5615432 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-017-1402-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with B cell hyperactivity, and lupus nephritis (LN), in particular, is promoted by the production of autoantibodies and immune complex deposition. Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) plays critical roles in B cell receptor-related and Fc receptor-related signaling. We aimed to investigate the impact of therapeutic intervention with HM71224 (LY3337641), a selective BTK inhibitor, on the development of murine SLE-like disease features. Methods We examined the therapeutic effects of HM71224 on SLE-like disease features in MRL/lpr and NZB/W F1 mice. The disease-related skin lesion was macroscopically observed in MRL/lpr mice, and the impact on splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy was determined by the weight of the spleen and cervical lymph node. The renal function was evaluated by measuring blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and urine protein, and the renal damage was assessed by histopathological grading. Survival rate was observed during the administration period. The impact of B cell inhibition was investigated in splenocytes from both mice using flow cytometry. Autoantibody was measured in serum by ELISA. Results HM71224 effectively suppressed splenic B220+GL7+, B220+CD138+, and B220+CD69+ B cell counts, and anti-dsDNA IgG and reduced splenomegaly and lymph node enlargement. The compound also prevented skin lesions caused by lupus development, ameliorated renal inflammation and damage with increased blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, and decreased proteinuria. Furthermore, HM71224 also decreased mortality from lupus development in both mouse models. Conclusion Our results indicate that inhibition of BTK by HM71224 effectively reduced B cell hyperactivity and significantly attenuated the development of SLE and LN in rodent SLE models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Yon Kim
- Host Defense Modulation Lab, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-Ro, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea.,Hanmi Research Center, Hanmi Pharm. Co. Ltd, 550 Dongtangiheung-Ro, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Tae Park
- Hanmi Research Center, Hanmi Pharm. Co. Ltd, 550 Dongtangiheung-Ro, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Young Jang
- Hanmi Research Center, Hanmi Pharm. Co. Ltd, 550 Dongtangiheung-Ro, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Hang Lee
- Hanmi Research Center, Hanmi Pharm. Co. Ltd, 550 Dongtangiheung-Ro, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo-Yun Byun
- Hanmi Research Center, Hanmi Pharm. Co. Ltd, 550 Dongtangiheung-Ro, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwee Hyun Suh
- Hanmi Research Center, Hanmi Pharm. Co. Ltd, 550 Dongtangiheung-Ro, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Mi Lee
- Hanmi Research Center, Hanmi Pharm. Co. Ltd, 550 Dongtangiheung-Ro, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hoon Kim
- Hanmi Research Center, Hanmi Pharm. Co. Ltd, 550 Dongtangiheung-Ro, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18469, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kwang Woo Hwang
- Host Defense Modulation Lab, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-Ro, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Lupus nephritis is the most common organ-threatening manifestation of lupus and continues to result in end-stage renal disease. This review describes the contemporary treatment of lupus nephritis as well as emerging therapeutic strategies. RECENT FINDINGS Lupus nephritis management consists of an initial (induction) phase and a maintenance (extended) phase in which steroids are used in combination with another immunosuppressive medication. Current treatments are incompletely effective and associated with substantial toxicity. Despite disappointing results of several recent trials, novel therapies targeting diverse immunologic pathways are being actively studied in lupus nephritis. Two promising strategies include the use of B-cell depletion therapy and multitarget therapy with calcineurin inhibitors. In parallel with the conduct of these trials, there are ongoing efforts to improve trial design. Two recent studies of outcome measures reported that a level of proteinuria of less than 0.7-0.8 g at 12 months is most predictive of good long-term renal outcome, and that the inclusion of urine red blood cells worsens the predictive value of proteinuria alone. SUMMARY Improved understanding of lupus nephritis pathogenesis, development of novel therapies, and optimization of clinical trial design are leading the path forward for successful drug development in lupus nephritis. The ultimate goal of these efforts is to treat our patients in a more strategic, personalized manner that improves long-term outcomes.
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Stewart RF, Bellamy COC, Kluth DC, Dhaun N. In Absentia: Lupus-Like Nephritis with Seronegative Antiphospholipid Syndrome. Am J Med 2017; 130:805-808. [PMID: 28300537 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2017.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David C Kluth
- Department of Renal Medicine, Infirmary of Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Neeraj Dhaun
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science and the Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Scotland.
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Day J, Limaye V, Proudman S, Hayball JD, Hissaria P. The utility of monitoring peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets by flow cytometric analysis in patients with rheumatological diseases treated with rituximab. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:542-547. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Aguiar R, Araújo C, Martins-Coelho G, Isenberg D. Use of Rituximab in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Single Center Experience Over 14 Years. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2017; 69:257-262. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.22921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Aguiar
- Centro Hospitalar do Baixo Vouga EPE; Aveiro Portugal
| | - C. Araújo
- Hospital de Curry Cabral, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central EPE; Lisbon Portugal
| | - G. Martins-Coelho
- Baixo Vouga Group of Primary Care Centers and University of Porto Medical School; Porto Portugal
| | - D. Isenberg
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, University College of London Hospital; London UK
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Mota P, Reddy V, Isenberg D. Improving B-cell depletion in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2016; 13:667-676. [PMID: 27841031 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2017.1259068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rituximab-based B-cell depletion (BCD) therapy is effective in refractory rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and although used to treat patients with refractory systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in routine clinical practice, rituximab failed to meet the primary endpoints in two large randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of non-renal (EXPLORER) and renal (LUNAR) SLE. Areas covered: We review how BCD could be improved to achieve better clinical responses in RA and SLE. Insights into the variability in clinical response to BCD in RA and SLE may help develop new therapeutic strategies. To this end, a literature search was performed using the following terms: rheumatoid arthritis, systemic erythematosus lupus, rituximab and B-cell depletion. Expert commentary: Poor trial design may have, at least partly, contributed to the apparent lack of response to BCD in the two RCTs of patients with SLE. Enhanced B-cell depletion and/or sequential therapy with belimumab may improve clinical response at least in some patients with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Mota
- a Department of Internal Medicine , Hospital da Luz , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Venkat Reddy
- b Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine , University College London , London , UK
| | - David Isenberg
- b Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine , University College London , London , UK
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Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is a chronic and devastating complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. Despite advances in our understanding of LN and the availability of effective therapies, LN remains a difficult clinical problem, and progression to end stage renal disease remains a significant challenge. Though the advent of biologics has revolutionized the treatment of many rheumatological conditions, and several clinical trials of biologics have been conducted in LN, the promise of biologics remains unfulfilled. The experience gained from these initial clinical trials can help tailor approaches in future clinical trials, and the lessons learned can be applied to find a cure for this condition.
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49
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Iwata S, Tanaka Y. B-cell subsets, signaling and their roles in secretion of autoantibodies. Lupus 2016; 25:850-856. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203316643172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
B cells play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. In patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the percentages of plasmablasts and IgD−CD27− double-negative memory B cells in peripheral blood are significantly increased, while IgD+CD27+ IgM memory B cells are significantly decreased compared to healthy donors. The phenotypic change is significantly associated with disease activity and concentration of autoantibodies. Treatment of B-cell depletion using rituximab results in the reconstitution of peripheral B cells in SLE patients with subsequent improvement in disease activity. Numerous studies have described abnormalities in B-cell receptor (BCR)-mediated signaling in B cells of SLE patients. Since differences in BCR signaling are considered to dictate the survival or death of naïve and memory B cells, aberrant BCR signal can lead to abnormality of B-cell subsets in SLE patients. Although Syk and Btk function as key molecules in BCR signaling, their pathological role in SLE remains unclear. We found that Syk and Btk do not only transduce activation signal through BCR, but also mediate crosstalk between BCR and Toll-like receptor (TLR) as well as BCR and JAK-STAT pathways in human B cells in vitro. In addition, pronounced Syk and Btk phosphorylation was observed in B cells of patients with active SLE compared to those of healthy individuals. The results suggest the involvement of Syk and Btk activation in abnormalities of BCR-mediated signaling and B-cell phenotypes during the pathological process of SLE and that Syk, Btk and JAK are potential therapeutic targets in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Iwata
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Y Tanaka
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Japan
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Gatto M, Saccon F, Zen M, Bettio S, Iaccarino L, Punzi L, Doria A. Success and failure of biological treatment in systemic lupus erythematosus: A critical analysis. J Autoimmun 2016; 74:94-105. [PMID: 27373904 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2016.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Patients affected with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) still display increased mortality and decreased quality of life in respect to general population. The major determinant of poor long term prognosis is organ damage, which is predictive of more damage and death. Damage is in turn triggered by uncontrolled disease activity and especially by the long-standing corticosteroid use which often accompanies SLE patients over their disease course, owing both to the need of reaching disease remission and to the habit of keeping patients on a small steroid dose for an indefinite period of time. Hence, the need for new drugs and therapeutic strategies aiming at minimizing damage accrual through a better control of disease activity and a steroid-sparing potential is paramount. So far, however, the therapeutic strategy in SLE requires a multitarget approach which is not devoid of widespread immunesuppression. In fact, several studies have been carried out in recent years targeting both the adaptive and the innate immune system, the majority of which did not achieve their primary endpoint, being often divergent from successful clinical experience and thereby committing physician to off-label use of targeted therapies in face of refractory SLE manifestations. The study designs and the chosen endpoints were often blamed for inadequacy, being at least in part responsible for study failures. In this review, we go over major clinical trials conducted in SLE by analyzing any critical aspects related to study design, predefined endpoints and biological activity of novel compounds that may have hampered study outcome, despite the great effort of providing less toxic drugs within a targeted, pathogenic-based approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariele Gatto
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35123, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Saccon
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35123, Padova, Italy
| | - Margherita Zen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35123, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvano Bettio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35123, Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Iaccarino
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35123, Padova, Italy
| | - Leonardo Punzi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35123, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Doria
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35123, Padova, Italy.
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