Effects of Alefacept on T Cells in Psoriasis
Author Information
Author(s): Chamian Francesca, Lin Shao-Lee, Lee Edmund, Kikuchi Toyoko, Gilleaudeau Patricia, Sullivan-Whalen Mary, Cardinale Irma, Khatcherian Artemis, Novitskaya Inna, Wittkowski Knut M, Krueger James G, Lowes Michelle A
Primary Institution: The Rockefeller University
Hypothesis
Alefacept selectively targets effector memory T cells in psoriasis vulgaris.
Conclusion
Alefacept causes a selective reduction in circulating effector memory T cells and relative preservation of central memory T cells in psoriasis.
Supporting Evidence
- Alefacept treatment led to a mean 63% reduction in effector memory T cells.
- Central memory T cells were less affected by alefacept treatment.
- 45% of patients achieved a PASI improvement greater than 70%.
- 55% of patients showed disease remission by histologic criteria.
Takeaway
Alefacept helps reduce certain bad T cells in psoriasis while keeping some good T cells safe.
Methodology
Patients with moderate to severe psoriasis received twelve 7.5 mg weekly intravenous doses of alefacept, and circulating leukocytes were phenotyped.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to small sample size and non-responders.
Limitations
Some patients did not complete the study due to non-response.
Participant Demographics
19 males and 3 females, ages 29–68 years, median age 49.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<10-4
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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