Spesolimab, A Novel Interleukin-36 Inhibitor for Generalized Pustular Psoriasis Flares in Adult Patients

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare, immune-mediated inflammatory disease with characteristic cutaneous and systemic manifestations. Mutations in the interleukin-36 receptor antagonist (IL36RN) gene have been implicated in its pathogenesis. Spesolimab is a novel systemic biologic therapy that selectively inhibits interleukin-36. It was recently approved by Health Canada and the US FDA for the treatment of GPP flares in adults. Results from phase 1 and 2 studies have been promising. Herein, we review the efficacy and safety of spesolimab for the treatment of GPP flares, as demonstrated in clinical trials.

Rat 50 kHz Trill Calls Are Tied to the Expectation of Social Interaction

Rats emit a variety of calls in the 40–80 kHz range (50 kHz calls). While these calls are generally associated with positive affect, it is unclear whether certain calls might be used selectively in certain contexts. To examine this, we looked at ultrasonic calls in 30–40 day old male rats during the expectation of either play or food, both of which are reinforcing. Behavior and vocalizations were recorded while rats were in a test chamber awaiting the arrival of a play partner or food over seven days of testing. Control groups were included for the non-specific effects of food deprivation and social isolation. Play reward led to an increase in 50 kHz vocalizations, generally, with specific increases in trill and “trill with jump” calls not seen in other groups. Expectation of food reward did not lead to a significant increase in vocalizations of any type, perhaps due to the young age of our study group. Further, rats that were food deprived for the food expectation study showed markedly lower calls overall and had a different profile of call types compared to rats that were socially isolated. Taken together, the results suggest that trill-associated calls may be used selectively when rats are socially isolated and/or expecting a social encounter.