CTLA4Igfusieproteïnen

CTLA4Ig fusion proteins, also known as abatacept and belatacept, are a class of medications used to treat autoimmune diseases. These proteins are engineered by fusing the extracellular domain of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) to the Fc region of human immunoglobulin G1. CTLA-4 is a receptor expressed on T cells that acts as a brake on the immune system, preventing excessive T cell activation. By binding to CD80 and CD86 on antigen-presenting cells, CTLA4Ig fusion proteins block the co-stimulatory signals required for full T cell activation. This interruption of T cell signaling helps to reduce the inflammatory response characteristic of autoimmune conditions.

Abatacept is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It works by selectively inhibiting T cell activation, thereby reducing joint inflammation and damage. Belatacept, a more potent analog, is used to prevent organ rejection after kidney transplantation. By suppressing the immune system's response to the transplanted kidney, it helps to improve graft survival rates. Both medications are administered intravenously or subcutaneously. Common side effects can include headache, upper respiratory tract infections, and nausea. Due to their immunosuppressive effects, CTLA4Ig fusion proteins can increase the risk of infections, including opportunistic infections. Patients taking these medications require careful monitoring by healthcare professionals.