Translating research to clinical application: The utilization of JAK inhibitors in scleroderma

Year 2024, Volume: 54 Issue: 3, 483 - 487, 30.12.2024

Ayşe Koçak

https://doi.org/10.26650/IstanbulJPharm.2024.1410173

Abstract

The clinical characteristics and prognosis of scleroderma (SSc), an uncommon autoimmune disease, can vary widely. There is no specific treatment for SSc. Medications used for the treatment of SSc, such as tocilizumab, cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, and nintedanib, have a range of potential side effects. More than 50 ligands have been shown to activate the JAK/STAT signalling pathway, which plays a role in cell signal transmission through an evolutionarily conserved mechanism. The pathway of JAK/STAT signalling contributes to autoimmune. JAK inhibitors are tiny compounds with various molecular configurations. Patient illness development is only slightly slowed down or stabilised when these medications are used. In animal models of SSc, JAK inhibitors decreased pulmonary and cutaneous fibrosis. There are only few clinical studies on the effectiveness and safety of JAK inhibitors in individuals with SSc. In particular, tofacitinib and baricitinib are used for treating SSc. The reduction in the modified rodnan skin score after treatment initiation was more significant in patients with previously untreated SSc. JAK inhibitors may be a safe and effective treatment option for skin fibrosis and interstitial lung disease in SSc. This review examines the application of JAK inhibitors in scleroderma, encompassing both fundamental research and clinical investigations. In the future, JAK inhibitors may serve as a prospective treatment for SSc; nonetheless, the paramount consideration remains the patient’s well-being and quality of life. The realization of this part will be contingent upon the completion of clinical trials.

Keywords

SSc, JAK inhibitors, Treatment

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