Antibodies Targeting the Tumor Necrosis Factor-Like Ligand 1A in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A New Kid on the (Biologics) Block?

BACKGROUND The treatment options for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have grown over the last years. However, a significant fraction of patients either do not respond to their treatment or lose response over time. SUMMARY Future treatment options could include antibodies that target the tumor necrosis factor-like ligand 1A (TL1A). TL1A is a key cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of autoimmune diseases including IBD. Studies have shown that IBD disease severity correlates well with serum levels of TL1A. Phase 2 data from two agents currently in clinical testing have been released. In line with requirements for modern therapeutics, companion diagnostic was part of these trials. This aims to identify those patients that are more likely to respond to the agents tested. KEY MESSAGES With regard to the available data the risk/benefit profile of TL1A inhibitors seems to be promising. This article gives a short update and overview, where we are at this point in time with antibodies targeting the TL1A protein in IBD.