[Anti-TNF-alpha monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis]

Abstract

Introduction: Current slow-acting anti-rheumatic drugs available for rheumatoid arthritis can fail for certain severe cases; some are used empirically. Improvements in our knowledge of its pathogenesis and advances in molecular biology have made it possible to develop partially selective immunotherapy approaches.

Current knowledge and key points: Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is a critical inflammatory mediator in rheumatoid arthritis and may therefore be a useful target for specific immunotherapy. This article summarizes clinical studies using anti-TNF-alpha antibodies. It appears that there is good evidence for both safety and beneficial effects of anti-TNF-alpha antibodies in short-term treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Future prospects and projects: It remains to be determined whether specific blockade of a single inflammatory mediator may be useful in long-term management. Therapeutic strategies aimed at concomitantly interfering with multiple pathogenic pathways are currently under investigation.