Autoimmune Diseases
In autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system forms antibodies against a molecule that is correctly part of the body, also known as a self-antigen. An immune complex is then formed between the self-antigen and the antibody to the self-antigen.
Recently, research reports have suggested a role of TLR7 and TLR9 in recognition of these immune complexes and induction of an immune response. In such a disease state, blocking immune responses that are mediated through TLR7 or TLR9 may mitigate the pathogenesis of the disease by reducing recognition of the immune complex.
Idera has identified DNA-based compounds that act as antagonists of TLR7 and TLR9 and block immune responses mediated through these TLRs. The Company believes that such antagonists may have potential application in autoimmune diseases. Idera researchers recently have made scientific presentations on preclinical evaluations of this class of compounds in a variety of autoimmune diseases including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis.