New insight into immunosuppression and treatment of autoimmune diseases

The achievements in photoimmunology over the last years have not only broadened our knowledge how ultraviolet (UV) light compromises the immune system but have also yielded important insights into general immunology and photobiology. Therefore, studies will not only increase our understanding how UV acts as a pathogen but will also support the development of new therapeutic strategies, e.g. suppressing (auto)immune reactions via administration of antigen-specific regulatory T cells. Major advances in biotechnology have already resulted in the development of several novel agents for the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Some of these new immunomodulating drugs, such as mycophenolate mofetile and rituximab, are actually evaluated in controlled clinical trials to confirm the efficacy and safety profile in patients with autoimmune diseases. However, there is urgent need for specific immunointervention and further therapeutic options, especially for patients with autoimmune diseases in life-threatening situations and for non-responders to standard immunosuppression.