Llama-inspired drug relieves arthritic pain

• Autores: Andy Coghlan
• Localización: New scientist, ISSN 0262-4079, Nº. 2905, 2013, pág. 12
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • Arthritis may have met its match, in the form of the llama immune system. Antibodies similar to ones originally discovered in camels and llamas have helped to heal moderate to severe arthritis in a small trial. The antibodies have inspired the design of a drug, ALX-0061, that blocks a receptor for interleukin 6. This signaling molecule amplifies inflammation, leading to sore and swollen joints. The symptoms ease once the receptor is blocked.