The vimentin-targeting monoclonal antibody hzVSF-V13 reduces TH17 cell numbers and osteoclastogenesis to attenuate rheumatoid arthritis progression

BACKGROUND: In an inflammatory environment, damage to vimentin (Vim) can induce its citrullination. Together with the formation of immune complexes, citrullinated Vim further stimulates inflammatory processes, leading to chronic inflammation. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease, have elevated levels of anti-citrullinated Vim antibodies. METHODS: Therefore, we aimed to demonstrate the effects of a Vim-targeting IgG4 monoclonal antibody in RA. hzVSF-V13 treatment reduced arthritis severity and induced immunoregulatory effects, as indicated by a reduction in Th17 cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines. RESULTS: Decrease in citrullinated Vim-specific IgG levels in serum were accompanied by a decrease in citrullinated Vim in joint tissue. Also, it reduced the expression of osteoclast differentiation factors in RA patient samples. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest the ability of hzVSF-V13 to suppress inflammation and osteoclast differentiation not only in an animal model of collagen-induced arthritis, but also in RA patients. The clinical application of hzVSF-V13 may lead to effective treatment of RA patients.