Figure 2. Targeting B cells for current and potential therapeutic approaches in rheumatoid arthritis.
Considering a B cell as the sole target, we have gathered all current target molecules in three main groups: surface molecules, cytokines and chemokines, and intracellular signaling. Several of these drugs are not approved for their use in rheumatoid arthritis, but have been approved for treatment of other autoimmune diseases or B-cell cancers. We also consider that DMARDs and NSAIDs might have potential, albeit more limited effects on B-cell functions, although this is largely unexplored. Current drugs and the ones under development are indicated by their generic name.
DMARD: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drug; NSAID: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.