Targeting of human interleukin-12B by small hairpin RNAs in xenografted psoriatic skin.

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that shows as erythematous and scaly lesions. The pathogenesis of psoriasis is driven by a dysregulation of the immune system which leads to an altered cytokine production. Proinflammatory cytokines that are up-regulated in psoriasis include tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and IL-23 for which monoclonal antibodies have already been approved for clinical use.

[Gene therapy for severe combined immunodeficiency].

New results with gene therapy for severe combined immunodeficiency due to adenosine deaminase deficiency are promising. We review a clinical project in which ten children were treated with gene modified autologous haematopoietic stem cells. After treatment, eight patients were able to do without enzyme-replacement therapy, and nine patients showed improved immune function and sustained low concentration of toxic metabolites.