PKC Inhibitor Inhibits Psoriasis

An exploratory study of a new class of drugs has encouraging results.

Isoforms of protein kinase C (PKC) potently regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and survival. In cytoplasm, activation of various isoforms — including keratinocytes and T lymphocytes — causes phosphorylation of various substrates. A PKC inhibitor currently called AEB071 affects T lymphocytes and particularly inhibits interleukin-17, a critical cytokine in the pathogenesis of the psoriatic plaque. For this reason, AEB071 could be expected to exert therapeutic effects.

In this manufacturer-sponsored, proof-of-concept study, researchers administered AEB071 to 32 patients with psoriasis, who were assigned to one of four treatment groups, divided by dose size. Two patients in each group received placebo, and the remaining pat…

Reviewing Author

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)