T cells, the Next Big Target in Axial Spondyloarthritis? - Takeaways - MDSpire
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Exploring T Cells as a Promising Therapeutic Target in Axial Spondyloarthritis

  • By

  • Mansi K. Aparnathi

  • Nigil Haroon

  • May 25, 2026

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  • 1

    Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing significant back pain.

  • 2

    T cells play a critical role in the pathogenesis of axSpA, with genetic associations and altered T cell biology observed in affected patients.

  • 3

    CD8+ T cells are strongly associated with axSpA, particularly through the HLA-B27 gene, which is present in 80% to 90% of patients.

  • 4

    CD4+ T helper cells, particularly Th17 cells, are significant in the initiation and progression of axSpA.

  • 5

    Current treatments for axSpA include biologic response modifiers targeting TNF and IL-17, but many patients do not respond to initial therapies.

Original Source(s)

T cells, the Next Big Target in Axial Spondyloarthritis?

  • by Mansi K. Aparnathi, Nigil Haroon

  • May 25, 2026

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