TNF Alpha Blockers - Markers of Treatment Response

TNF alpha blockers represent an important class of drugs used in the treatment of several autoimmune diseases, such as moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, active psoriatic arthritis, active ankylosing spondylitis and Crohn’s disease. Enbrel, Remicade and Humira are the most commonly prescribed TNF alpha blockers on the market. Response to TNF alpha blockers varies among patients and use of these agents has been associated with certain serious adverse side effects. Blood biomarkers that predict treatment response prior to initiation of therapy or blood biomarkers that reflect the biological effects leading to treatment response, will enable improved patient selection and more personalized treatment of patients with these agents. We have developed a protocol with our partner Humana and intend to commence a discovery study for these biomarkers in 2010.