Journal of Translational Medicine (Jun 2007)

Alefacept (anti-CD2) causes a selective reduction in circulating effector memory T cells (Tem) and relative preservation of central memory T cells (Tcm) in psoriasis

  • Novitskaya Inna,
  • Khatcherian Artemis,
  • Cardinale Irma,
  • Sullivan-Whalen Mary,
  • Gilleaudeau Patricia,
  • Kikuchi Toyoko,
  • Lee Edmund,
  • Lin Shao-Lee,
  • Chamian Francesca,
  • Wittkowski Knut M,
  • Krueger James G,
  • Lowes Michelle A

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1479-5876-5-27
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 5, no. 1
p. 27

Abstract

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Abstract Background Alefacept (anti-CD2) biological therapy selectively targets effector memory T cells (Tem) in psoriasis vulgaris, a model Type 1 autoimmune disease. Methods Circulating leukocytes were phenotyped in patients receiving alefacept for moderate to severe psoriasis. Results In all patients, this treatment caused a preferential decrease in effector memory T cells (CCR7- CD45RA-) (mean 63% reduction) for both CD4+ and CD8+ Tem, while central memory T cells (Tcm) (CCR7+CD45RA-) were less affected, and naïve T cells (CCR7+CD45RA+) were relatively spared. Circulating CD8+ effector T cells and Type 1 T cells (IFN-γ-producing) were also significantly reduced. Conclusion Alefacept causes a selective reduction in circulating effector memory T cells (Tem) and relative preservation of central memory T cells (Tcm) in psoriasis.