The development of anticytokine therapeutics for rheumatic diseases

Abstract

We have briefly reviewed the history of IL-1 and TNFα and the development of therapeutic agents that block these cytokines. This line of investigation started with observations by astute investigators in the fields of oncology and infectious diseases who were using relatively simple experimental approaches. A variety of sometimes serendipitous and paradoxical findings have characterized progress to our present state of knowledge. Our patients have benefited and our professional life has changed, perhaps not always for the better. Although anticytokine agents represent an important advance in treatment, development of the next level of new therapeutic agents will follow after further knowledge emerges on the causes of rheumatic diseases. © 2008, American College of Rheumatology.