Biomarkers for prediction of TNFα blockers response in rheumatoid arthritis

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays pivotal roles in regulating the inflammatory response in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Intensive studies on TNFα-driven inflammation processes have led to the development of TNFα blockers for RA treatment. However, response to these therapies is heterogeneous with roughly two-thirds of patient response and one-third non-response. Given the destructive nature of RA, the risk of adverse effects, and considerable costs for TNFα blocker therapy, there is a strong need to identify predictors of response prior to start the TNFα blocker therapy. Here we review several studies focused on predicting the response to TNFα blockers. Demographic, clinical, radiological, blood, genetic or synovial tissue biomarkers were studied to find some predictive biomarkers of TNFα blocker response. Unfortunately, results from these studies are heterogeneous. Discrepancy between these studies can be explained in part to the heterogeneity between the studies. As difference in the response criteria used, the delay of efficacy for the primary endpoint, and the genetic background of each population were all observed. Nevertheless, a high local and systemic level of TNFα prior to TNFα blocker therapy seems to be associated with a good clinical response. However, to validate these results, additional studies using independent and large cohorts are needed.