Immunobiologicals for Psoriasis: Using Targeted Immunotherapies as Pathogenic Probes in Psoriasis

Biotechnology-created immunobiologicals targeted immunotherapies that offer hope for safe and effective long-termmanagement of moderate to severe psoriasis vulgaris (Table 1). These treatments are here now: Etanercept (Enbrel) is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of psoriatic arthritis with or without methotrexate. Alefacept (Amevive) is recommended for approval, by the FDADermatologyAdvisory Panel, as monotherapy for moderate to severe psoriasis vulgaris. Infliximab (Remicade), etanercept, and efalizumab (Raptiva) are in relatively advanced stages of development as monotherapies for moderate to severe psoriasis. Targeted immunobiologicals have also been invaluable therapeutic probes into the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The studies summarized in this article demonstrate the power of clinical research not only to improve patient care but also to produce good science.