Article Text
Abstract
Background The engagement of FcGRs by TNF antagonists could affect macrophage mediated clearance of immune complexes.
Purpose The aim of our study was to explore the potential role of FcGR2A genetic polymorphism as a predictor of tocilizumab efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.
Material and methods The FcGR2A (A >G) (rs1801274) genetic variant was genotyped using predesigned TaqMan genotyping assay technology and analysed on a ViiA7 real time PCR system. Clinical response was evaluated at 24 weeks with the use of the 28 joint disease activity score criteria (DAS28). The endpoint was a change in DAS28 (cDAS28). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.20
Results Clinical data for 140 tocilizumab treated patients were obtained. The patients were aged (mean±SD) 53.25 ± 12.42 years; 79% were female. Mean DAS28 at baseline was 5.71 ± 1.13. The FcGR2A-AA polymorphism was significantly associated with cDAS28 (AA vs no AA p = 0.01, OR=0.14, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.81; AG vs no AG p = 0.007, OR=9.52, 95% CI 1.80–14.70).
Conclusion Our results confirm that FcGR2A (A >G) rs1801274 polymorphisms could be useful as a genetic marker of tocilizumab efficacy in RA patients. More studies are necessary to confirm these results.
No conflict of interest.