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The BAFF / APRIL system as therapeutic target in multiple sclerosis
Roberta Magliozzi1, Damiano Marastoni1, Massimiliano Calabrese1
1Neurology B, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona , Verona, Italy.
Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets
|September 9, 2020
Summary
The B-cell-activating factor (BAFF) and A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) system is implicated in autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). Dysregulation of BAFF/APRIL disrupts immune tolerance, contributing to MS pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The B-cell-activating factor (BAFF) and A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) system plays a crucial role in B cell regulation.
- Inappropriate production of BAFF and APRIL is linked to the disruption of immune tolerance in autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on the BAFF/APRIL system in MS.
- To discuss ongoing clinical trials targeting this system for MS treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental and clinical evidence.
- Analysis of current therapeutic strategies and clinical trials.
Main Results:
- Elevated BAFF levels can impair B cell immunity, leading to loss of self-tolerance, autoantibody production, and neuroinflammation in MS.
- Understanding BAFF/APRIL mechanisms can identify biomarkers for treatment response and novel therapeutic targets.
Conclusions:
- The BAFF/APRIL system is a significant factor in MS pathogenesis.
- Targeting BAFF/APRIL may offer new therapeutic avenues for specific MS patient subgroups, requiring further research into cellular mechanisms and biomarkers.
