The emerging role of IL-1 inhibition in patients affected by rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes

Although in the past, prevention of the joint destruction and disability were strongly emphasised in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), at present, a growing body of evidence is focused at identifying the best management of associated comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). Recently, the hypothesis that blocking pro-inflammatory activity may be helpful in the treatment of some comorbidities has been proposed in RA patients.

Background: Although in the past, prevention of the joint destruction and disability was strongly emphasised in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), at present, a growing body of evidence is focused at identifying the best management of associated comorbidities, such as Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Recently, the hypothesis that blocking pro-inflammatory activity may be helpful in the treatment of some comorbidities has been proposed in RA patients. Objective: We reviewed the role of IL-1β during RA and T2D, the efficacy of IL-1 blocking agents in controlling both diseases and, possible, decreasing the concomitant enhanced atherosclerotic process. Method: After literature search, the available evidence has been selected and commented in the text. Results: During RA, it is well known that different inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), are pivotal pathogenic mediators and their role has been largely confirmed in clinical settings. Similarly, it has been shown that the excess of nutrients, secondary to over-nutrition, may activate the immune system, leading to an increased production of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, suggesting new possible therapeutic targets. Conclusion: Although further studies are needed to fully investigate the pathogenic interplay between inflammation and metabolic disorders, IL-1β has been implicated in both RA and T2D pathogenic mechanisms. Intriguingly, the potential role of anti-IL-1 drugs has been proposed in RA patients affected by T2D.