Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 14, 2026

Adoptive Immunotherapy of iNKT Cells in Glucose-6-Phosphate Isomerase G6PI-Induced RA Mice
Published on: January 31, 2020
Hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis hormone changes during IL-17A inhibition with secukinumab in patients with
F Krefting1, S Hölsken2, W Sondermann1
1Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany.
Purpose:
Secukinumab, an interleukin-17 A (IL-17 A) inhibitor, is an approved treatment for psoriasis, but effects on the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis are unknown.
Methods:
In a 16-week randomized controlled trial, 105 patients with psoriasis received secukinumab at either 300 or 75 mg. Plasma levels of IL-17 A, cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, prolactin, dehydroepiandrosterone and perceived stress using Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) were measured at baseline and every four weeks. Treatment response was assessed using Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI).
Results:
Both dosage groups showed significant increases in IL-17 A and cortisol, with no differences between groups. Cortisol increased by approximately 33 %, indicating activation of HPA axis. Changes in cortisol did not correlate with PASI. PSS-10 inversely correlated with cortisol at baseline, and shifted positive during follow-up.
Conclusion:
Secukinumab treatment in psoriasis is accompanied by HPA axis activation. Further studies are needed to determine the duration, mechanisms, and magnitude of this activation.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
The JAK-STAT Signaling Pathway
Antiasthma Drugs: Inhaled Corticosteroids and Glucocorticoids
ICS work through a multifaceted mechanism of action. They suppress the inflammatory response caused by the proliferation of TH cells. They also reduce the transcription of the IL-2 gene, which is involved in the...
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Immunomodulatory Agents
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...

