Mechanisms of action of infliximab in inflammatory bowel disease: an anti-inflammatory multitasker

Dig Liver Dis. 2008 Jul:40 Suppl 2:S225-8. doi: 10.1016/S1590-8658(08)60530-7.

Abstract

The pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) plays a central role in mucosal inflammation and is a key mediator in the inflammatory cascade in both Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Infliximab, a monoclonal antibody against TNF-alpha has been proved highly effective in the clinical management of both forms of IBD. Aim of this paper is to review the mechanisms of action of infliximab in IBD.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / pharmacology*
  • Endothelial Cells / drug effects
  • Endothelial Cells / immunology
  • Fibroblasts / drug effects
  • Fibroblasts / immunology
  • Humans
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / immunology
  • Infliximab
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / immunology*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
  • Infliximab