IL-12 and IL-23/Th17 axis in systemic lupus erythematosus

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Rheumatology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with incompletely understood pathogenesis.
• Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and Interleukin-23 (IL-23) are increasingly recognized as critical cytokines involved in SLE.
• The IL-23/Th17 axis, involving IL-23 stimulation of Th17 cells to produce IL-17, is a significant pathway in SLE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and highlight the emerging pathogenetic roles of IL-12 and the IL-23/Th17 axis in SLE.
• To elucidate the intricate interactions between IL-12 and the IL-23/Th17 axis in the context of SLE.
• To discuss Ustekinumab, a targeted therapy for IL-12 and IL-23, as a potential novel therapeutic strategy for SLE.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of emerging pathogenetic pathways in SLE.
• Analysis of the roles of IL-12, IL-23, Th17 cells, and IL-17 in SLE.
• Examination of clinical investigations of IL-12/IL-23 targeted therapies in SLE.

Main Results:

• IL-12 and IL-23 are significant emerging cytokines contributing to SLE pathogenesis.
• The IL-23/Th17 axis is a crucial pathway in SLE, with important interactions with IL-12.
• Ustekinumab, targeting the shared p40 subunit of IL-12 and IL-23, shows promise as a therapeutic agent in SLE.

Conclusions:

• The IL-12 and IL-23/Th17 axis represents a critical area for understanding SLE pathogenesis.
• Targeting these pathways, particularly with agents like Ustekinumab, offers a promising novel therapeutic strategy for SLE patients.