An update on the pathogenic role of IL-6 in rheumatic diseases

Yuko Kaneko, Tsutomu Takeuchi

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Interleukin (IL)-6 is a pleiotropic cytokine that is involved in the pathogenesis of various rheumatic diseases. Direct inhibition of the IL-6 pathway by an anti-IL-6 receptor or inhibiting the ligand itself has proved to be efficacious in the treatment of these diseases. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, adult-onset Still's disease, large vessel vasculitis including giant cell arteritis and Takayasu disease, systemic sclerosis, and polymyalgia rheumatica respond well to IL-6 inhibition as expected. However, no clinically meaningful effect has been observed with regard to IL-6 blockade in ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. This review discusses the current state of IL-6 targeting approaches in various rheumatic diseases other than rheumatoid arthritis.

Original languageEnglish
Article number155645
JournalCytokine
Volume146
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021 Oct

Keywords

  • Interleukin-6
  • Rheumatic diseases

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology
  • Biochemistry
  • Hematology
  • Molecular Biology

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