In a new study, researchers looked at whether treatments targeting B-cell activating factor (BAFF) have an impact on human B-cells, as previous studies have suggested. B-cells are responsible for creating antibodies, including autoantibodies, and are thought to play a role in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases
Researchers compared B-cell levels in blood samples from people with lupus on standard-of-care therapy (SCT) to people with lupus on belimumab (Benlysta), a drug that blocks BAFF activity, and healthy people. They found those with lupus who were treated with belimumab had altered levels of certain B-cell sub-types, just as previous research findings have predicted.
This study is significant for two reasons. First, it offers further evidence that Benlysta effectively impacts B-cell production by depleting BAFF, supporting the efficacy of the treatment. Secondly, a novel approach to test the treatment’s effectiveness was adapted from past study types, opening the door for new approaches to Benlysta research.
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