Current and novel anti-inflammatory drug targets for inhibition of cytokines and leucocyte recruitment in rheumatic diseases.

OBJECTIVES: Many studies of disease state mechanisms reveal that unbridled inflammation is to blame for many of the symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases such as Crohn's and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). While therapies aimed at decreasing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines exist, some have failed clinically or have extensive adverse effects. The aim of this review is to discuss common drug targets for anti-inflammatory therapies as well as explore potential mechanisms of action for new therapies. Various studies done on novel mechanisms targeting pro-inflammatory cytokine release as well as leukocyte chemotaxis have been researched for discussion here. Both of these contribute to tissue injury and patient symptoms in inflammatory and autoimmune disease states.

KEY FINDINGS: While many current drug targets suppress inflammation via the receptor, research aimed at identifying new compounds and signaling mechanisms is ongoing to identify new targets within pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, or specific immune cell types.

CONCLUSIONS: While glucocorticoids and monoclonal antibodies have shown to be efficacious, some patients have encountered mixed results. Biologic therapies also come with a high price tag Thus, novel compounds with new immune drug targets are ideal for patients whose therapies have not been successful.