| Theme | Therapeutic strategy for Crohn's disease -- Should mucosal healing be a final goal? | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Development of new therapies for Crohn's disease | |
| Publish Date | 2012/05 | |
| Author | Kazuichi Okazaki | Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University Hirakata Hospital |
| Author | Akiko Kurishima | Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University Hirakata Hospital |
| Author | Takashi Okazaki | Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University Hirakata Hospital |
| Author | Yugo Ando | Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University Hirakata Hospital |
| [ Summary ] | Mechanisms related to the development of Crohn's disease still remain unclear. The pathophysiological components include the innate and adaptive immune systems, as well as the intestinal epithelium and vascular endothelium. Advances in the understanding of the roles of these pathophysiological components have resulted in the development of many novel biological agents. These agents represent alternative medications which may be employed in place of current therapies for patients with refractory Crohn's disease. This review systematically presents the mechanisms of actions, efficacy and safety of novel and emerging medications which are currently in clinical trials and discusses future directions in the treatment of Crohn's disease. | |