Receptor fusion proteins for the inhibition of cytokines

Cells are exposed to a large variety of cytokines that signal through corresponding cytokine receptors. In healthy tissues or tissues that respond properly to disturbed homeostasis, the cross-talk of a few conserved core signaling pathways downstream of the cytokine receptors is translated into an adequate cellular response. In chronic inflammatory diseases but also in cancer associated inflammation cytokine expression and the downstream signaling networks are dysregulated. Targeted therapies are aimed at the specific interference with dysregulated cytokine signaling. In this article some concepts of pharmacological intervention with cytokine signaling will be reviewed including biologics that target cytokines and cytokine receptors. Receptor fusion proteins consisting of the ligand-binding domains of cytokine receptors are highly specific and potent cytokine inhibitors and will be discussed in more detail.