Janus Kinase Inhibitors - A next generation treatment in Dermatology

Abstract

Abstract Over the past few decades, drugs targeting cytokines and their receptors have been researched and developed. These agents act on molecular targets at the subcellular level. The Janus Kinases family is a group of receptor-associated signaling molecules which are essential to the signal cascade originating from Type 1 and Type 2 cytokine receptors. Janus kinase inhibitors, also known as Jakinibs/ JAK inhibitors, are molecules developed against this class of kinases. Initially developed for use in different inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatological problems, JAK inhibitors are emerging as new agents in dermatology. Although biologics have proved to be effective and safe in various disorders, not all patients respond to this therapy. Jakinibs are also being seen as an alternative oral therapy for such patients. This article will review the basic principles of mode of action, efficacy and safety of JAK inhibitors in autoimmune conditions such as Psoriasis, Alopecia Areata, Atopic dermatitis, Lupus Erythematosus, Dermatomyositis and Vitiligo.  KEY WORDS: JAK inhibitors, cytokine receptors, autoimmune