Use of B lymphocyte stimulator inhibitor belimumab may be associated with a decrease in the serum concentration of epidermal growth factor in patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome

Abstract

B cell activating factor (BAFF), also called the B lymphocyte stimulator, has been known to show increased expression in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) which could explain increased B cell activation characteristic of this disease. Belimumab, a fully human IgG1λ recombinant monoclonal antibody directed against B lymphocyte stimulator (Blys), has been reported to be efficacious in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) through its B cell-mediated action. Randomized controlled trials of belimumab in a selected target population of pSS patients are further warranted.

Bioinspired membrane-based nanomodulators for immunotherapy of autoimmune and infectious diseases

“…Thus, specifically depleting the active B cells or plasmocyte may represent a promising approach to slowing diseases progress. Current monoclonal antibodies such as Rituxan and Belimumab have achieved some positive effects in clinics 55 , 56 , whereas the drug response remains unsatisfied because of heterogeneity of autoantigens in patients. Subsequently, more broad-spectrum strategies that can neutralize these autoantibodies should be developed.…”

Investigative biological therapies for primary Sjögren’s syndrome

“…This study suggests that low blood and salivary NK cell numbers may serve as predictors for a better belimumab response in pSS [ 45 ]. A retrospective off-label chart review study reported that treatment with belimumab led to significantly lower epidermal growth factor (EGF) concentrations [ 46 ], although the role of EGF in the pathogenesis or development of pSS remains elusive. A large RCT is needed to solidify the abovementioned findings.…”