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Novel therapies to reduce the progressive and destructive nature of inflammatory joint disease are always welcome, provided that safety is not compromised. Among the many 2015 studies in the field, we highlight a targetable mechanism of uric-acid-induced inflammation in gouty arthritis and the expected efficacy — but unforeseen safety concerns — of anti-IL-17 antibodies.
Key advances in lupus research in 2015 highlight the contribution of T cells to the pathogenesis of the disease. The findings not only shed light on the regulation and activity of these cells, but also suggest several novel therapeutic targets.
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of membrane-enclosed particles involved in a multitude of biological processes, including the development and homeostasis of cartilage tissue. In this Perspectives article, the authors describe the current knowledge of the functions of EVs in joint physiology and explore the therapeutic potential of EVs as tools to deliver biologically-active therapeutic agents to joints.
This Review discusses the progress made by international networks in the USA, Europe and Asia towards improving the efficacy of existing and novel therapies for lupus nephritis. Strategies being actively pursued include biomarker identification and optimization of induction and maintenance treatment. These approaches aim to improve patients' outcomes by raising complete response rates, reducing renal flares, preserving long-term renal function, and minimizing treatment-related toxic effects.
