Immunotargeting: A biological approach to the treatment of psoriasis

Biological therapies targeting T cell activation and trafficking, and the cytokine TNF-α have recently been approved for use in psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis. Clinical evidence suggests that they are both safe and efficacious for moderate to severe psoriasis and suitable for relatively long-term use. Causes for concern include T lymphocyte depletion (alefacept) and reactivation of mycobacterial infections (infliximab and adalimumab). Biological agents against further immunotargets, such as the Th-1 differentiating cytokines IL-12 and IL-23, are being developed.

Section editor:Mike Philpott – Centre for Cutaneous Research, Barts and The London, Queen Mary's School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of London, London E1 2AT, UK