Checkpoint Molecules in Rheumatology —or the Benefits of Being Exhausted

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review will focus on the most common co-inhibitory molecules, emphasizing the importance of these in relation to rheumatic disease.Recent FindingsCheckpoint molecules are pivotal in determining the outcome of antigen activation. Checkpoint molecules consist of co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory molecules, where the first activates and the latter inhibits the antigen presentation process. Studies show that increased activity of co-inhibitory molecules is associated with a good prognosis in rheumatic diseases. Opposite, when cancer patients are treated with antibodies blocking the inhibitory pathways, autoimmune diseases, including arthritis, develop as immune-related adverse events (IrAE). This emphasizes the importance of these pathways in autoimmune disease.SummaryCo-inhibitory molecules are becoming increasingly interesting as future treatment targets in rheumatic conditions. Treatments with antibodies blocking these pathways result in IrAE, often manifesting as autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Therefore, a need to get acquainted with these molecules is growing so we can cope with future challenges in rheumatic diseases.

Source: Current Rheumatology Reports - March 2, 2021 Category: Rheumatology Source Type: research