Anti-angiogenic effects of biotechnological therapies in rheumatic diseases

Abstract

Francesco Paolo Cantatore,1 Nicola Maruotti,1 Addolorata Corrado,1 Domenico Ribatti2,3 1Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia Medical School, Foggia, 2Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, 3National Cancer Institute “Giovanni Paolo II”, Bari, Italy Introduction: Angiogenesis plays a key role in the pathogenesis of numerous rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and vasculitides. Therefore, the inhibition of pathological angiogenesis may be considered a useful therapeutical approach in these rheumatic diseases. Methods: This review article is based on a literature research about the role of biotechnological therapies in angiogenesis inhibition. Results and conclusions: Several evidences have demonstrated a role for biotechnological therapies in angiogenesis inhibition. Nevertheless, further research and clinical trials are needed to better quantify the real impact of biotechnological therapies on pathological angiogenesis. Keywords: abatacept, anakinra, angiogenesis, rituximab, TNF-α, tocilizumab

Keywords

• angiogenesis
• biotechnological therapy
• rheumatic disease