BIOLOGICAL THERAPIES AS ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS AGAINST ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS

Laura Castillo-Bolaños, María Fernanda Chacón-Vargas, Alexa Delgadillo-Matarrita, Gineth Quesada-Porras, Cristy Villalobos-González, Juan José Mora-Román*

ABSTRACT

Ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmune disease characterized by wear and inflammation of the spinal column, spinal cord, sacroiliac joint, and peripheral joints, affecting patients' quality of life. The treatment given against this disease involves the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, and antirheumatics. The objective of this therapy is to face the ailments generated by the clinical manifestations. However, thanks to the development of monoclonal antibodies, it is possible to decrease symptoms and stop the disease's progression. These drugs are therapeutic tools that act on diverse immune system targets, mainly blocking pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNFα and IL-17a. Adalimumab, infliximab, golimumab, certolizumab pegol, secukinumab, and ixekizumab are currently commercially available. Likewise, there are many others in different investigation phases. Although there is no 100 % effective biological drug for treating ankylosing spondylitis, this scenario opens future research possibilities.

Keywords: ankylosing spondylitis, immune system, cytokines, biological therapy, monoclonal antibodies, industrial production.