Could anti IL12/23 therapy replace anti-TNF biologics?

Area of Science:

• Immunodermatology
• Rheumatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Biologic therapies have significantly improved outcomes for psoriatic arthritis and chronic plaque psoriasis.
• Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) agents are effective for severe psoriasis resistant to traditional systemic therapies.
• Recent research focuses on T-cell activation and the role of interleukins (IL) 12 and 23 in psoriasis pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of novel anti-IL-12/23 biologic therapies.
• To compare the effectiveness of anti-IL-12/23 agents with existing anti-TNF therapies.
• To determine the potential role of anti-IL-12/23 therapies in the landscape of biologic treatments.

Main Methods:

• Review of randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials.
• Focus on ustekinumab and ABT-874, which target the common p40 subunit of IL-12 and IL-23.
• Assessment of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 75 achievement rates.

Main Results:

• Ustekinumab and ABT-874 demonstrated high PASI 75 achievement rates (80% and 93% at week 12, respectively).
• These novel therapies target key inflammatory mediators in psoriasis.
• Ongoing larger studies aim to further define the safety profile.

Conclusions:

• Anti-IL-12/23 therapies represent a significant advancement in treating moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.
• Comparative studies are necessary to establish the advantages and safety of anti-IL-12/23 agents versus anti-TNF drugs.
• These new biologics hold promise for patients with psoriatic arthritis and plaque psoriasis.