Tertiary lymphoid structure as a therapeutic target of Crohns disease: modulation by TNFα blockade

Abstract

Inflammatory diseases, such as Crohns disease (CD), are primarily treated with therapies aimed at alleviating inflammation. Notably, biological agents like TNF inhibitors have transformed the management of these conditions. Previous research has indicated that TNF inhibitors affect the cells in the lamina propria. However, this study demonstrates that infliximab, a type of TNF inhibitor, reduces the presence of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) and alleviates inflammation of CD by targeting follicular dendritic cells and macrophages within these structures. TLS could also be a potential target for various biological agents used to treat inflammatory diseases beyond CD. Furthermore, our study suggests that the status of TLS may serve as a predictor for the response to TNF inhibitor treatment. Our research could pave the way for new treatment strategies and the advancement of personalized medicine for inflammatory diseases.