Canakinumab for the treatment of TNF-receptor associated periodic syndrome

TNF-receptor-associated periodic syndrome is an autoinflammatory disorder caused by mutations in TNF receptor superfamily 1A gene. The molecular pathogenesis of TRAPS remains unclear; it is known that a key role is played by mutations in TNFRSF1A that induce the hypersecretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as IL-1β, resulting in uncontrolled inflammatory reactions. Furthermore, TNFRSF1A gene mutations result in intracellular stress ultimately leading to increased production of interleukin-1β, but the exact mechanism referred to in the connection between TNFRSF1A mutation and increased release of IL-1β, is still under study. This explains why IL-1 inhibition treatment can be effective in treating TRAPS patients. The purpose of this review is to discuss the safety and efficacy of canakinumab, a high-affinity human monoclonal anti IL-1β antibody. Areas covered: The data obtained from case reports, case series, Phase II study and a phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial have been analyzed. Efficacy and safety profiles of canakinumab are discussed. Expert commentary: Was discussed an overview of treatment options in TRAPS patients. The understanding of pathogenesis of TNF-receptor-associated periodic syndrome led to realize why TRAPS patients respond to IL-1 inhibition. Canakinumab became approved for the treatment in TRAPS patients very recently.