Video Topics

Psoriasis Biologic Therapy

Our increasing knowledge of T cell physiology and cell interactions have enabled the re-engineering of specific human proteins involved in T cell function. These new forms of biologic therapy interact with specific molecular targets in T cell-mediated inflammatory processes and exert an anti-inflammatory effect.

Efalizumab (Raptiva) is a humanized immunoglobulin G monoclonal antibody specific to LFA-1, which interferes with T cell trafficking into the skin.

Alefacept (Amevive)(OK) is a fusion protein analog of LFA-3, the ligand for the T cell CD2 receptor. When administered intramuscularly, alefacept competitively inhibits LFA-3/CD2 interaction and reduces the circulating T cell subsets involved in psoriasis.

Infliximab (Remicade) is a chimeric monoclonal antibody, given intravenously, which binds and blocks the proinflammatory effect of tumor necrosis factor(TNF)

Etanercept (Enbrel) is a recombinant soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor fused to the Fc portion of a human immunoglobulin G molecule. It is given subcutaneously. The agent binds tumor necrosis factor, thus blocking its proinflammatory effect. Etanercept is approved for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.