Novel JAK inhibitors under investigation for systemic lupus erythematosus: - where are we now?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants are used to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, patients with SLE have poor long-term prognoses. This can be attributed to organ damage caused by flare-ups and drug toxicity due to the administration of nonspecific treatment. Therefore, SLE should be treated using therapeutic agents specific to its pathology. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors exert multitargeted effects by blocking the signaling of multiple cytokines. The use of JAK inhibitors has been approved to treat several inflammatory autoimmune diseases. Several clinical trials of JAK inhibitors for SLE treatment are ongoing.

AREA COVERED:

This review summarizes the basic and clinical significance of JAK inhibitors for treating SLE and the current status of the development of JAK inhibitors based on recent reports.

EXPERT OPINION:

SLE is a clinically and immunologically heterogeneous disease. Therefore, drugs targeting a single molecule require precision medicine to exert maximal therapeutic efficacy. JAK inhibitors can probably fine-tune the immune network via various mechanisms and broadly regulate complex immune-mediated pathologies in SLE. However, evidence is required to address some safety concerns associated with the use of JAK inhibitors in patients with SLE, including infections (particularly herpes zoster) and thromboembolism (particularly in the presence of concomitant antiphospholipid syndrome).

• Authors: Shingo Nakayamada, Yoshiya Tanaka
• Journal: Expert opinion on investigational drugs (Expert Opin Investig Drugs) 2023 Jul-Dec Vol. 32 Issue 10 Pg. 901-908 ISSN: 1744-7658 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 37753834 (Publication Type: Review, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Janus Kinase Inhibitors
• Cytokines
• Immunosuppressive Agents
• Glucocorticoids

Topics

• Humans
• Janus Kinase Inhibitors (adverse effects)
• Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic (drug therapy)
• Cytokines
• Immunosuppressive Agents (therapeutic use)
• Glucocorticoids (therapeutic use)