Interleukin-17-producing T cells in lupus : Current Opinion in Rheumatology (original) (raw)
Systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome: Edited by Dr Andras Perl
Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Correspondence to George C. Tsokos, MD, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, CLS-937 Boston, MA 02115, USA Tel: +1 617 735 4161; fax: +1 617 735 4170; e-mail: [email protected]
Abstract
Purpose of review
Interleukin-17 (IL-17) has emerged as a key cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. In this article, we review recently produced evidence obtained in patients and murine models of lupus that link increased IL-17 production with lupus pathology and discuss the potential roles IL-17 may play in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus.
Recent findings
IL-17 may promote autoantibody production and IL-17-producing cells are found in afflicted organs in humans and lupus-prone mice. TH17 and CD3+CD4−CD8− cells are expanded in systemic lupus erythematosus patients and account for the increased production of IL-17. Genetic silencing of genes involved in the increased production of IL-17 in lupus-prone mice as well as treatment of mice with lupus using biologic agents that result in decreased IL-17 production leads invariably to disease mitigation.
Summary
The presented evidence strongly argues for the introduction of IL-17-suppressing biologics in the treatment of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.
© 2010 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.