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Published on: May 4, 2017
Complement-targeted therapeutics: Are we there yet, or just getting started?
1Molecular Pharmacy Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
Abstract:
Therapeutic interventions in the complement system, a key immune-inflammatory mediator and contributor to a broad range of clinical conditions, have long been considered important yet challenging or even unfeasible to achieve. Almost 20 years ago, a spark was lit demonstrating the clinical and commercial viability of complement-targeted therapies. Since then, the field has experienced an impressive expansion of targeted indications and available treatment modalities. Currently, a dozen distinct complement-specific therapeutics covering several intervention points are available in the clinic, benefiting patients suffering from eight disorders, not counting numerous clinical trials and off-label uses. Observing this rapid rise of complement-targeted therapy from obscurity to mainstream with amazement, one might ask whether the peak of this development has now been reached or whether the field will continue marching on to new heights. This review looks at the milestones of complement drug discovery and development achieved so far, surveys the currently approved drug entities and indications, and ventures a glimpse into the future advancements yet to come.
Insights
Complement system therapies have advanced significantly, offering viable treatments for numerous disorders. This review highlights key milestones and future directions in complement-targeted drug development.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- The complement system is a crucial immune mediator implicated in various diseases.
- Targeting the complement system for therapeutic purposes was historically challenging.
- Recent advancements have demonstrated the clinical and commercial feasibility of complement-targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical milestones in complement drug discovery and development.
- To survey currently approved complement-specific therapeutics and their indications.
- To provide insights into future advancements in the field.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of complement drug discovery and development.
- Analysis of approved complement-specific therapeutics and clinical indications.
- Exploration of emerging trends and future prospects in complement therapy.
Main Results:
- The field of complement-targeted therapy has expanded rapidly over the past two decades.
- A dozen distinct complement-specific therapeutics are now available, treating eight disorders.
- Numerous clinical trials and off-label uses further demonstrate the growing impact of these therapies.
Conclusions:
- Complement-targeted therapies have evolved from challenging concepts to mainstream clinical options.
- The field continues to advance, with ongoing research and development promising further breakthroughs.
- Future advancements are expected to expand treatment modalities and address a broader range of conditions.
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