Immunology: Studying the Body's Own Defenses

The scientists in Abbott's immunology research group are leaders in the field of immunological discovery, working to provide health care professionals with therapies that target specific immunological diseases, using two major technology platforms: human monoclonal antibodies and small molecules that affect immune cell function. Our innovative approach has led to the development of human antibodies that affect important targets such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interleukin-23 (IL-23) – proteins that play key roles in the inflammatory response underlying immunological diseases.

Our efforts in this field resulted in HUMIRA® (adalimumab), a human anti-TNF monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, moderate to severe Crohn's disease, ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis of the spine), psoriatic arthritis, moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Making Sense of Monoclonal Antibodies

Antibodies are proteins produced by certain immune system cells called B-cells, and are an important part of the body’s defense against toxins, microbes and viruses. B-cells produce antibodies that bind to specific foreign molecules (or antigens) in the body. Monoclonal antibodies are designed to mimic naturally occurring antibodies, and recognize and target particular antigens without damaging healthy cells.

Ongoing Research in Immunology

ABT-874, a fully human monoclonal antibody, represents a unique approach to treating psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases. It targets interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, two proteins that play a role in the inflammation associated with psoriasis, Crohn's disease and other autoimmune diseases. No therapy available today for psoriasis targets these proteins.

Psoriasis data

In early 2007, Abbott presented ABT-874 Phase II psoriasis data that showed it was well tolerated and demonstrated improvement in skin symptoms. In this study, 180 patients with moderate to severe psoriasis were randomly assigned to one of six different treatment groups – five on varying dosing regimens with ABT-874, and one receiving placebo. At week 12, at least 90 percent of patients in four of the ABT-874 treatment groups saw a 75 percent improvement in their disease vs. only 3 percent receiving placebo. In the same four groups, more than half of the patients achieved a 90 percent improvement vs. 0 percent in the placebo group. The most common adverse events observed were injection site reactions, nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nose and pharynx), upper respiratory infections, and headache.

For important product information, please access:

• Humira (adalimumab)
  • U.S. Prescribing Information
  • Important Safety Information