Targeting Interleukin 13 for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis: a comprehensive updated review of this intriguing disease with futuristic insights

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a paradigmatic prevalent, long-lasting, and inflammatory skin condition with a diverse range of clinical manifestations. The etiology and clinical symptoms of AD are influenced by complex pathophysiological processes, which involve a strong genetic component, epidermal dysfunction, and immunological dysregulation, and a strong influence of other physiological and environmental factors. The FDA has approved targeted and well-tolerated immunomodulators including biologics like dupilumab and crisaborole, and small molecules such as baricitinib, as novel therapies for AD. They effectively treat AD but are too expensive for most patients. The review provides an update on the state of knowledge of AD pathogenesis, discusses the available diagnostic and scoring indices, and provides a scientific foundation for treatment methods for AD. This review also presents data on clinical efficacy of innovative treatments' considering recent guidelines, emphasizing the newest medications and ongoing trials. Finally, the new implication of artificial intelligence (AI) in AD management is explored, where AI can speed up diagnosis and therapy. The PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases were used for this review.

Biologics and Small Molecules for Inflammatory Nail Disorders: A Narrative Review

Background

Inflammatory dermatological conditions, including psoriasis, lichen planus, eczema, and alopecia areata, are frequently accompanied by nail findings and can have a significant impact on quality of life. Biologic and small-molecule medications have been approved over the past several decades in treating patients with these inflammatory nail disorders. They may be used in conjunction with longstanding mainstays of treatment (topical and intralesional corticosteroids, topical vitamin D3 analogs).

Objectives

Our objectives were to review biologic and small-molecule treatment efficacies for nail psoriasis and alopecia areata-associated nail dystrophy, including Janus kinase inhibitors, apremilast, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, interleukin (IL)-17 inhibitors, and IL-23 inhibitors.

Materials and Methods

A comprehensive PubMed literature review of clinical research studies, narrative reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses was performed.

Conclusion

Many biologics and small molecules are effective in treating nail psoriasis and alopecia areata, with each requiring precautions for adverse events. Clinical trials for use of biologics and small molecules for nail lichen planus and atopic dermatitis have not been published to date.

IL-13 inhibition in the treatment of atopic dermatitis - new and emerging biologic agents

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic, and recurrent inflammatory skin condition that affects a considerable portion of the population, and is particularly prevalent among children. The development of AD is influenced by environmental and genetic factors, which cause epidermal barrier dysfunction, immune dysregulation, and dysbiosis. In immune dysregulation, there is excessive production of cytokines. Among the cytokines, interleukin (IL)-13 plays a major role in the pathogenesis of AD. Searching for new and more selective treatments for moderate-to-severe cases is important because of the considerable effect of AD on the quality of life. Tralokinumab and lebrikizumab are selective IL-13 inhibitors that have demonstrated safety and efficacy as treatment options for AD in phase III trials. Tralokinumab is approved for use in Europe and the USA, while lebrikizumab is approved only in Europe. Cendakimab, which is another IL-13 selective inhibitor, has shown promising results in phase II trials, providing safe and effective outcomes. Eblasakimab, which disrupts IL-13 and IL-4 signaling pathways, is currently in phase II trials following well-tolerated administration in phase I studies. This narrative review aims to outline the current state of knowledge regarding the effectiveness and safety of these four biologic agents targeting IL-13 signaling.

Safety and efficacy of biologic drugs in children or adolescents with atopic dermatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Children and adolescents suffering from moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) face a significant disease burden that greatly impacts their quality of life. Treatment options for AD are currently limited. To assess the safety and efficacy of biologic drugs, dupilumab, lebrikizumab, or tralokinumab, in improving outcomes in patients with moderate to severe inadequately controlled AD. We searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing dupilumab, lebrikizumab or tralokinumab to placebo in patients with AD. We computed odds ratios (ORs) for binary endpoints, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), random effects model was used and a p-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. We analysed data into Review Manager 5.4. A total of five RCTs and 973 patients were included, of whom 592 were prescribed a biologic drug. Compared with placebo, patients receiving a biologic drug had a greater improvement, achieved an Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) score of 0 or 1 (OR 5.05; 95% CI 3.08-8.29), Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) 75 (OR 6.87; 95% CI 4.71-10.02), EASI 50 (OR 8.89; 95% CI 6.18-12.78) and EASI 90 (8.30; 95% CI 4.81-14.31). The proportion of patients with 3 points or more (OR 6.56; 95% CI 4.34-9.90) or 4 points or more (OR 8.09; 95% CI 5.19-12.59) improvement from baseline in peak pruritus NRS was significantly higher with biologic drugs than placebo. There were no significant differences between groups regarding adverse events (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.58-1.07), and conjunctivitis (OR 2.08; 95% CI 1.00-4.33). In this meta-analysis, dupilumab, lebrikizumab, and tralokinumab have shown significant improvements in signs, symptoms and quality of life in children or adolescents with moderate to severe AD. Larger studies may be needed to continue evaluating the safety and efficacy of these biologic drugs in this patient population.

Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines: the hidden keys to autoimmune gastritis therapy

Autoimmune gastritis (AIG) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the destruction of gastric parietal cells and atrophy of the oxyntic mucosa which induces intrinsic factor deficiency and hypo-achlorhydria. AIG predominantly affects the antral mucosa with AIG patients experiencing increased inflammation and a predisposition toward the development of gastric adenocarcinoma and type I neuroendocrine tumors. The exact pathogenesis of this autoimmune disorder is incompletely understood although dysregulated immunological mechanisms appear to major contributors. This review of autoimmune gastritis, an unmet medical need, summarizes current knowledge on pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and strategies for the discovery of novel biomarkers and potential pharmacological targets.

Cendakimab in Patients With Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Cendakimab selectively targets interleukin (IL)-13, a type 2 cytokine implicated in atopic dermatitis (AD) pathogenesis, by inhibiting binding to its receptors (IL13R-α1 and IL13R-α2). Proof-of-concept work in AD supports using cendakimab for type 2 inflammatory diseases.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of cendakimab compared with placebo in patients with moderate to severe AD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, dose-ranging clinical trial was conducted from May 2021 to November 2022. Adult patients with moderate to severe AD and inadequate response to topical medications were enrolled at 69 sites in 5 countries (US [n = 26], Japan [n = 17], Canada [n = 9], Poland [n = 9], and Czech Republic [n = 8]). Data were analyzed between April 25, 2023, and October 16, 2023.

Interventions

Patients were randomized (1:1:1:1) to receive subcutaneous cendakimab, 360 mg, every 2 weeks; 720 mg, every 2 weeks; 720 mg, once weekly; or placebo.

Main Outcome and Measure

Mean percentage change in Eczema Area and Severity Index scores from baseline to week 16. Hierarchical testing with multiplicity adjustment was performed for 720 mg, once weekly vs placebo, then 720 mg, every 2 weeks vs placebo, and then 360 mg, every 2 weeks vs placebo.

Results

Overall, 221 patients were randomized, and 220 received study drug (95 women [43%]; mean [SD] age, 37.7 [13.9] years; 720 mg, once weekly [54 (24%)]; 720 mg, every 2 weeks [55 (25%)]; 360 mg, every 2 weeks [55 (25%)]; placebo [56 (26%)]). The primary efficacy end point was met for cendakimab, 720 mg, once weekly vs placebo (-84.4 vs -62.7; P = .003) but missed statistical significance for 720 mg, every 2 weeks (-76.0 vs -62.7; P = .06). The treatment effect for 360 mg, every 2 weeks (-16.3; nominal P = .03 vs placebo) was comparable with 720 mg, once weekly (-21.8); however, significance was not claimed because the hierarchical testing sequence was interrupted. Of patients with treatment-emergent adverse events leading to discontinuation, 4 (7.4%) received 720 mg, once weekly; 2 (3.6%) 720 mg, every 2 weeks; 1 (1.8%) 360 mg, every 2 weeks; and 2 (3.6%) placebo.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this randomized clinical trial indicated that cendakimab was effective, generally safe, and well-tolerated in patients with moderate to severe AD. The primary end point was met with a significant reduction in Eczema Area and Severity Index scores with 720 mg, once weekly at week 16. Cendakimab demonstrated progressive AD improvement at all doses during 16 weeks of treatment.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04800315.

A Comprehensive Review of Biologics in Phase III and IV Clinical Trials for Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a skin condition characterized by significant challenges and a substantial deterioration in the life quality for affected patients. The therapeutic landscape for AD has witnessed a transformative shift with the emergence of biologic therapies. Our focus centers on biologics currently undergoing phase III and IV clinical trials, deeming them to hold the highest potential for significant clinical relevance. To identify biologic drugs under development in phase III and IV clinical trials, we searched ClinicalTrials.gov. Additional relevant trials were identified through JapicCTI/ Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCT) with a citation search. A search in MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed. There have been 76 clinical trials identified concerning biologic drugs: dupilumab (34 trials), lebrikizumab (14 trials), tralokinumab (10 trials), rocatinlimab (7 trials), amlitelimab (2 trials), nemolizumab (6 trials), MG-K10 (1 trial), CM310 (1 trial), 611 (1 trial). A search in MEDLINE revealed 132 articles concerning phase III and IV clinical trials for AD treatment. A total of 39 articles concerned biologic drugs covering 23 clinical trials. A search in EMBASE revealed 268 relevant articles, allowing us to identify results of an additional six clinical trials. The safety and efficacy of these biologics are comprehensively addressed in this review. This comprehensive review aims to explore the current landscape of biologic therapies for AD, delving into the latest research findings, clinical trial outcomes, and the diverse mechanisms of action employed by these novel interventions.

The Possible Roles of IL-4/IL-13 in the Development of Eosinophil-Predominant Severe Asthma

Bronchial asthma is characterized by airway inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airway obstruction. Eosinophils contribute to the pathogenesis of airway disease mainly by releasing eosinophil-specific granules, lipid mediators, superoxide anions, and their DNA. Type-2 cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 also play roles in the development of bronchial asthma. Among these cytokines, IL-4 is involved in T-cell differentiation, B-cell activation, B-cell differentiation into plasma cells, and the production of immunoglobulin E. Although IL-13 has similar effects to IL-4, IL-13 mainly affects structural cells, such as epithelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts. IL-13 induces the differentiation of goblet cells that produce mucus and induces the airway remodeling, including smooth muscle hypertrophy. IL-4 and IL-13 do not directly activate the effector functions of eosinophils; however, they can induce eosinophilic airway inflammation by upregulating the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (for adhesion) and CC chemokine receptor 3 ligands (for migration). Dupilumab, a human anti-IL-4 receptor α monoclonal antibody that inhibits IL-4 and IL-13 signaling, decreases asthma exacerbations and mucus plugs and increases lung function in moderate to severe asthma. In addition, dupilumab is effective for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and for atopic dermatitis, and IL-4/IL-13 blocking is expected to suppress allergen sensitization, including transcutaneous sensitization and atopic march.

Type 2 airway inflammation in COPD

Globally, nearly 400 million persons have COPD, and COPD is one of the leading causes of hospitalisation and mortality across the world. While it has been long-recognised that COPD is an inflammatory lung disease, dissimilar to asthma, type 2 inflammation was thought to play a minor role. However, recent studies suggest that in approximately one third of patients with COPD, type 2 inflammation may be an important driver of disease and a potential therapeutic target. Importantly, the immune cells and molecules involved in COPD-related type 2 immunity may be significantly different from those observed in severe asthma. Here, we identify the important molecules and effector immune cells involved in type 2 airway inflammation in COPD, discuss the recent therapeutic trial results of biologicals that have targeted these pathways and explore the future of therapeutic development of type 2 immune modulators in COPD.

Interplay of cytokines in the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis: insights from Murin models and human

The pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD) is understood to be crucially influenced by three main factors: dysregulation of the immune response, barrier dysfunction, and pruritus. In the lesional skin of AD, various innate immune cells, including Th2 cells, type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), and basophils, produce Th2 cytokines [interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-31]. Alarmins such as TSLP, IL-25, and IL-33 are also produced by epidermal keratinocytes, amplifying type 2 inflammation. In the chronic phase, not only Th2 cells but also Th22 and Th17 cells increase in number, leading to suppression of filaggrin expression by IL-4, IL-13, and IL-22, which further deteriorates the epidermal barrier function. Dupilumab, which targets IL-4 and IL-13, has shown efficacy in treating moderate to severe AD. Nemolizumab, targeting IL-31RA, effectively reduces pruritus in AD patients. In addition, clinical trials with fezakinumab, targeting IL-22, have demonstrated promising results, particularly in severe AD cases. Conversely, in murine models of AD, several cytokines, initially regarded as promising therapeutic targets, have not demonstrated sufficient efficacy in clinical trials. IL-33 has been identified as a potent activator of immune cells, exacerbating AD in murine models and correlating with disease severity in human patients. However, treatments targeting IL-33 have not shown sufficient efficacy in clinical trials. Similarly, thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), integral to type 2 immune responses, induces dermatitis in animal models and is elevated in human AD, yet clinical treatments like tezepelumab exhibit limited efficacy. Therapies targeting IL-1α, IL-5, and IL-17 also failed to achieve sufficient efficacy in clinical trials. It has become clear that for treating AD, IL-4, IL-13, and IL-31 are relevant therapeutic targets during the acute phase, while IL-22 emerges as a target in more severe cases. This delineation underscores the necessity of considering distinct pathophysiological aspects and therapeutic targets in AD between mouse models and humans. Consequently, this review delineates the distinct roles of cytokines in the pathogenesis of AD, juxtaposing their significance in human AD from clinical trials against insights gleaned from AD mouse models. This approach will improve our understanding of interspecies variation and facilitate a deeper insight into the pathogenesis of AD in humans.

A Bispecific, Tetravalent Antibody Targeting Inflammatory and Pruritogenic Pathways in Atopic Dermatitis

Inhibition of IL-4/IL-13 signaling has dramatically improved the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). However, in many patients, clinical responses are slow to develop and remain modest. Indeed, some symptoms of AD are dependent on IL-31, which is only partially reduced by IL-4/IL-13 inhibition. Thus, there is an unmet need for AD treatments that concomitantly block IL-4/IL-13 and IL-31 pathways. We engineered NM26-2198, a bispecific tetravalent antibody designed to accomplish this task. In reporter cell lines, NM26-2198 concomitantly inhibited IL-4/IL-13 and IL-31 signaling with a potency comparable with that of the combination of an anti-IL-4Rα antibody (dupilumab) and an anti-IL-31 antibody (BMS-981164). In human PBMCs, NM26-2198 inhibited IL-4-induced upregulation of CD23, demonstrating functional binding to FcγRII (CD32). NM26-2198 also inhibited the secretion of the AD biomarker thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) in blood samples from healthy human donors. In male cynomolgus monkeys, NM26-2198 exhibited favorable pharmacokinetics and significantly inhibited IL-31-induced scratching at a dose of 30 mg/kg. In a repeat-dose, good laboratory practice toxicology study in cynomolgus monkeys, no adverse effects of NM26-2198 were observed at a weekly dose of 125 mg/kg. Together, these results justify the clinical investigation of NM26-2198 as a treatment for moderate-to-severe AD.

Matching-Adjusted Indirect Comparison of the Long-Term Efficacy Maintenance and Adverse Event Rates of Lebrikizumab versus Dupilumab in Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis

INTRODUCTION

Lebrikizumab and dupilumab are monoclonal antibodies approved for treating moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD). Both have demonstrated efficacy and safety over the 16-week SOLOs and ADvocate trials. However, AD is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory disease, and the long-term maintenance of efficacy is critical for achieving disease control from the perspective of patients, physicians, and regulatory agencies. This study aims to compare the long-term efficacy and safety of lebrikizumab every 4 weeks (Q4W) and dupilumab every week or every 2 weeks (QW/Q2W) among adult patients who have achieved treatment efficacy following the induction period of 16 weeks.

METHODS

Lebrikizumab's efficacy was assessed using individual patient data (IPD) from the ADvocate 1 and 2 monotherapy trials. Dupilumab's efficacy was evaluated using aggregate data from the adult-exclusive SOLO-CONTINUE trial. Due to the absence of a common comparator trial arm, we employed an unanchored matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC), a robust methodology widely accepted by health technology assessment (HTA) agencies. This re-weights ADvocate IPD to align with SOLO-CONTINUE's prognostic factors and effect modifiers. We compared lebrikizumab's adjusted outcomes with dupilumab outcomes at week 52, focusing on 75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index from baseline (EASI-75), Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) score of 0 or 1, and overall adverse event (AE) rates. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to test various combinations of matching variables.

RESULTS

Adults on lebrikizumab Q4W were more likely to maintain IGA 0/1 through the 36-week maintenance period (weeks 16-52) compared with those on dupilumab QW/Q2W [risk ratio (RR) 1.334; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-1.74; p = 0.035]. Both treatments demonstrated comparable efficacy in terms of EASI-75 maintenance (RR 0.937; 95% CI 0.78-1.13; p = 0.490) and similar AE rates (RR 1.052; 95% CI 0.90-1.23; p = 0.526). Sensitivity analyses substantiated these findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that lebrikizumab Q4W may provide equal or superior long-term maintenance of efficacy measured with EASI-75 and IGA 0/1 compared with dupilumab QW/Q2W, with the advantage of requiring less frequent doses.

Challenges and Future Trends in Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis represents a complex and multidimensional interaction that represents potential fields of preventive and therapeutic management. In addition to the treatment armamentarium available for atopic dermatitis, novel drugs targeting significant molecular pathways in atopic dermatitis biologics and small molecules are also being developed given the condition's complex pathophysiology. While most of the patients are expecting better efficacy and long-term control, the response to these drugs would still depend on numerous factors such as complex genotype, diverse environmental triggers and microbiome-derived signals, and, most importantly, dynamic immune responses. This review article highlights the challenges and the recently developed pharmacological agents in atopic dermatitis based on the molecular pathogenesis of this condition, creating a specific therapeutic approach toward a more personalized medicine.