B-cell-targeted therapies in the treatment of autoimmune diseases

In recent years a growing body of evidence suggests a more central role for B-cells in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases, apart from being the precursors of autoantibody-producing plasma cells. B-lymphocytes play an important role in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases. In particular, the introduction of rituximab, a depleting antibody targeting CD20+ B cells and its clinical efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis and multiple sclerosis has stimulated further B-cell-targeted therapies. Other biologicals targeting CD20 are under clinical investigation. New strategies include targeting further B-cell surface markers such as CD22, as well as blocking B-cell-activating factors or their receptors.