Currently, those with lupus and other autoimmune diseases, commonly treat the condition with corticosteroids to suppress their overactive immune system and prevent it from attacking healthy tissues which can result in symptoms such as inflammation, pain and organ damage.
These steroid treatments work by killing certain immune system cells, including plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) that overproduce type 1 interferons, an immune system substance that contributes to lupus and other autoimmune diseases. However, unlike other conditions, steroid treatments are not as effective against these cells in those with lupus.
By largely studying children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), BRI scientists in collaboration with scientists at Dynavax in Berkeley, CA, were able to solve the mystery behind the resistance. They determined that two immune system proteins known as toll-receptor 7 (TLR7) and toll-receptor 9 (TLR9), cause an activation of PDCs—the very cells steroids target—negating the effects of treatment. BRI scientists reported their findings in the June issue of the journal Nature.
A similar resistance mechanism might be at play with people with IBD (and other autoimmune diseases). It hasn't been proven yet obviously, but it's certainly something to consider when you're working with your doctor to deal with a serious flare-up. The traditional prednisone or budesonide (Entocort) may not work for you simply because your body works against the mechanism of the drugs.
Thank you for the interesting article. I have Crohn's as well.
ReplyDeleteLast time when I was hospitalized, I wasn't even responding to IV-solomedrol or any IV steroids in high doses given every 6 hours. Seems like my body has built some immunity since the first time use.