The human body is an intricate tapestry of nerves, cells, tissues and organs with the immune system standing as a remarkable guardian, tirelessly defending one against a host of external threats which are in the form of harmful pathogens and diseases. It is a complex network of cells, molecules, and pathways working in perfect harmony to keep us in the pink of our health. But what happens when this natural symphony of defence goes astray due to dysfunction or overactivity and leads to numerous health aberrations? Cue in Immuno-modulators – the agents that hold the key to unlocking the immense potential of our immune system.
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What Are Immuno-Modulators?
Immunomodulators are a class of remarkable medications or substances that help regulate and modify the immune response in the body, paving the way for new possibilities in the field of medicine and human health.
They usually originate in the form of synthetic drugs, biological agents, or natural substances and work by either enhancing or suppressing the immune system's activity, depending on the specific condition being treated. The primary goal of immunomodulators is to target various components of the immune system, such as immune cells, cytokines (chemical messengers of the immune system), or other molecules involved in immune responses. They play a significant role in the management of autoimmune diseases, organ transplantation, allergies, and infections.
Types of Immuno-Modulators
Immunomodulatory medications can be categorised into the following types based on their function:
Immunostimulants:
Immunostimulants are substances that enhance or boost the response of the immune system. They work by activating immune cells and increasing their response, enabling them to better recognize and combat pathogens, viruses, and other harmful threats. Examples of immunostimulants include cytokines like interferons and interleukins, which help combat viral infections, and certain vaccines that stimulate an immune response against specific diseases.
Immunosuppressants:
Immunosuppressants, as the name suggests, are substances that usually help suppress or inhibit the immune response. They are often used to prevent the immune system from overreacting or attacking healthy body cells and tissues and prevent damage. Immunosuppressants include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and certain biologic agents that impede the function of specific immune cells or molecules.
Monoclonal Antibodies:
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are laboratory-produced proteins that mimic the natural antibodies produced by our immune system. They are designed to target specific molecules or cells involved in immune responses.
Cytokine Modulators:
Cytokines are signalling molecules produced by immune cells that regulate the immune response. Cytokine modulators can either enhance or suppress the production or activity of specific cytokines, thereby influencing the immune response.
Immunomodulatory Biologics:
Immunomodulatory biologics are a class of medications that are derived from living cells or organisms. Their working mechanism is to target specific components of the immune system to regulate its activity. These biologics are often used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
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Vaccines:
Vaccines can also be considered immuno-modulators as they help stimulate an immune response against specific pathogens. When vaccines are injected into the body in the form of harmless components or weakened forms of the pathogen, they work by training the body’s immune system to recognize and trigger a rapid and effective defence against future encounters with the actual pathogen.
Toll-like Receptor Agonists:
Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists are synthetic molecules that activate specific receptor cells present in immune cells. These receptors recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and trigger an immune response.
Corticosteroids:
Corticosteroids are synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the body. They are potent immuno-modulators that reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response.
Interferons:
Interferons are naturally occurring proteins that play a critical role in regulating the immune response to viral infections and certain cancers. They enhance the body's defence mechanisms, including activating immune cells and inhibiting viral replication.
Uses of Immuno-Modulators:
Autoimmune Diseases:
Immuno-modulators are widely used in the management of autoimmune diseases by suppressing immune responses, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. Common autoimmune conditions treated with immuno-modulators include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis.
Also Read: Autoimmune Disease: Learn What It Is About And Why It’s Hard To Detect
Organ Transplantation:
After organ transplantation, the immune system may recognize the new organ as foreign and mount an immune response, leading to organ rejection. Immuno-modulators are prescribed to transplant recipients to suppress the immune system and ensure the success and longevity of the transplanted organ.
Allergies and Asthma:
Immuno-modulators, such as corticosteroids, are commonly used to manage allergies and asthma. They help reduce inflammation in the airways and suppress the immune response triggered by allergens, providing relief from symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and wheezing.
Cancer Treatment:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors, for example, block proteins on immune cells that prevent them from attacking cancer cells. These medications have shown remarkable efficacy in certain types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and bladder cancer.
Infectious Diseases:
Some immuno-modulators, such as interferons, are used to enhance the body's immune response against viral infections by bolstering the antiviral defence mechanisms, aiding in the treatment of conditions like hepatitis B and C, human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, and certain types of cancer associated with viral infections.
Inflammatory Conditions:
Inflammatory conditions, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and psoriasis, often involve an overactive immune response. Immuno-modulators, including biologic agents and corticosteroids, help regulate inflammation and immune system activity, reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life for individuals with these conditions.
Side Effects of Immuno-Modulators:
While immuno-modulators offer significant benefits in managing various conditions, they may also come with potential side effects when used for a long time. The specific side effects can vary depending on the type of medication and individual factors. Some common side effects include:
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Skin reactions
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
- Bone density loss
- Increased blood sugar levels
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
