Therapeutic Modalities for Autoimmune Diseases: Current Challenges and Future Directions
摘要
Autoimmune diseases (ADs) are responsible for afflicting 5–8% of the global population, presenting a significant health burden. Current therapeutic approaches are often criticized for lacking specificity, which leads to their limited efficacy and numerous adverse effects. The development of novel therapeutic modalities is viewed as crucial to overcoming these challenges. Promising approaches have been identified, including cell therapies utilizing regulatory cells such as regulatory T-cells (Tregs), chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to target pathogenic immune cells. Nucleotide-based therapies (mRNA and gene editing) and antibody-based therapies (bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates) are considered to offer precise and potent effects. However, challenges remain in translating preclinical findings into clinical success. The development of new drugs or the repurposing of existing ones based on molecular and clinical understanding of specific autoimmune conditions is deemed vital. The integration of personalized medicine approaches utilizing multiomics data and patient-reported outcomes is viewed as key in optimizing treatment. Future efforts are recommended to dynamically integrate new technologies with clinical trials to refine treatments and elucidate disease mechanisms. Prevention and early intervention strategies are also prioritized. The gut microbiome has emerged as a potential target, with gut dysbiosis being linked to autoimmunity. Microbiome-modulating therapies are regarded as holding promise. Other proposed strategies include targeting dendritic cells, citrullinated neoantigens in rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and epigenetic modifications. Overcoming obstacles in translating animal studies and achieving operational tolerance without chronic immunosuppression is considered crucial. The integration of cutting-edge technologies with deeper biological insights is viewed as holding significant potential for transforming the management of autoimmune diseases.