Monoclonal antibodies in the therapy of multiple sclerosis: an overview

With the generation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), a new therapeutical concept has gained importance. MAbs aim against selective antigens and so have changed our treatment strategies from non-specific to specific. Four therapeuticals have gained importance in the therapy of multiple sclerosis (MS): One has already been approved for therapy (natalizumab), whereas the other three are either in clinical trials or are about to enter phase III studies. Currently, two phase III studies that evaluate the efficacy of alemtuzumab have begun with recruitment (MS CARE I and II). Another mAb (daclizumab) under study is directed to the interleukin-2alpha chain (CD25). Results of clinical trials are promising by reporting reduction of relapses and progression in relapsing remitting and secondary progressive MS accompanied by reduction of new lesions in magnetic resonance imaging. A multicenter randomized controlled trial of daclizumab in MS is going to be initiated. Trials with a humanised antibody directed against the cell surface molecule CD20 are under development. Although the future will emphasise this trend to mAbs, the risks should not be ignored as has been shown in recent news. Still, mAbs have the possibility to revolutionise therapeutical concepts in the treatment of immune-mediated diseases, and will therefore be a useful addition to current therapeutic concepts.