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- Ocular Autoimmune Uveitis
Ocular autoimmune uveitis represents a diverse spectrum of inflammatory diseases. Protheragen provides end-to-end solutions for the diagnostic and therapeutic development of ocular autoimmune uveitis.
Ocular autoimmune uveitis (AU) is a type of intraocular inflammation with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations affecting the uvea, or uveal tract of the eye which comprises the iris, ciliary body, and the choroid. If not medically treated, this disorder may escalate towards perpetual blindness and eyesight troubles. AU is known to be highly diverse, with most cases being idiopathic, while the rest of the AU cases are linked to systemic autoimmune diseases. Symptoms are also diverse, ranging from absence of symptoms at all to biologically rapid progression towards sight-threatening conditions based on the level of inflammation (anterior, intermediate, posterior, or panuveitis).
Fig.1 JAK inhibitors and mimetics show promise in treating autoimmune disorders like uveitis. (Pandey R., et al., 2023)
Laboratory Tests
Tests done in a laboratory are fundamental to the detection of possible systemic autoimmune disorders or infections which may manifest with uveitis. Autoimmune serology, which includes rheumatoid factor, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides, and anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies tests, may assist in the detection of systemic disorders. Also important is the genetic testing such as HLA typing for uveitis and HLA-B51 associated Behçet's disease. Screening of the possible pathogens Toxoplasma, Treponema, Mycobacteria, Borrelia and some viral agents for infectious uveitis is mandatory.
Imaging Techniques
Modern imaging modalities are essential in the process of diagnosis. With optical coherence tomography, it is possible to obtain intricate images of the retinal layers aiding in the diagnosis of macular edema and other retinal pathologies. Fluorescein angiography helps to study the retinal and choroidal circulation and helps to identify regions of hemorrhage and ischemia. Ultrasound biomicroscopy assists in the examination of structures in the anterior segment, especially with anterior uveitis.
Table 1. Therapeutics of autoimmune uveitis. (Prete M., et al., 2016)
| Therapeutics | Target | Description | Stage |
| Corticosteroids | NF-κB signaling, TLR2/TLR4, activated CD4+ T cells | First-line therapy for active AU; reduces inflammation. Administered topically, periocularly, or systemically. | Approved |
| Cyclophosphamide | NF-κB signaling, CD4+ T cells | Used for severe or refractory AU; effective but associated with side effects like leukopenia and cystitis. | Approved |
| Methotrexate | T cells, B cells | Second-line immunosuppressant; steroid-sparing agent with a good safety profile. | Approved |
| Azathioprine | T cells, B cells | Third-line therapy; is used for chronic AU, especially in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. | Approved |
| Cyclosporin A | NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells) | Second-line therapy; inhibits T-cell activation but may cause renal toxicity and hypertension. | Approved |
| Mycophenolate Mofetil | T cells, B cells | Third-line therapy; is effective for controlling inflammation with fewer side effects compared to cyclophosphamide. | Approved |
| Tacrolimus | NFAT | Similar to cyclosporin A but more potent; used in refractory cases. | Approved |
| Infliximab | TNF-α | Anti-TNF-α monoclonal antibody; highly effective in Behçet's disease and refractory AU but may cause infusion reactions. | Approved |
| Adalimumab | TNF-α | Subcutaneous anti-TNF-α therapy; safer than infliximab, used in pediatric and adult AU. | Approved |
Disclaimer: Protheragen focuses on providing preclinical research service. This table is for information exchange purposes only. This table is not a treatment plan recommendation. For guidance on treatment options, please visit a regular hospital.
Protheragen's expertise spans from early-stage research to preclinical development, providing a full spectrum of solutions tailored to meet the unique challenges of this complex disease. Our diagnostics development services include the design and validation of assays for autoimmune markers, genetic testing, and advanced imaging techniques. In the therapeutic realm, we specialize in the development of targeted drugs, biological agents, and innovative delivery systems to ensure optimal efficacy and safety.
Understanding that each client's needs are unique, Protheragen provides customized services tailored to specific research and development goals. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
References
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