Itolizumab

Itolizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets CD6, a surface receptor expressed on T cells. By binding CD6, it disrupts the CD6–CD166 co-stimulatory pathway, reducing T-cell activation and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This immunomodulatory action is intended to decrease inflammatory responses in autoimmune diseases.

It was developed by Biocon Limited, an Indian biopharmaceutical company. In India, itolizumab has been approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It is administered by intravenous infusion; dosing schedules vary by indication and are set by clinicians.

Common adverse effects include infusion-related reactions, hypersensitivity, and infections. Other reported events can include rash and mild laboratory abnormalities; as with other immunotherapies, serious infections or immune-related adverse events may occur.

In clinical research, itolizumab has been studied in other autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and in various COVID-19-related inflammatory settings in India, but evidence outside its approved indication is limited and it has not received broad regulatory approval in major markets.