From laboratory to clinic: Rationale for biologic therapy

Traditional systemic therapy for psoriasis is limited by either lack of efficacy or the long-term side effect profile of the medications used. Newer information about the pathophysiology of the disease has led to new perspectives on developing novel techniques for attacking psoriasis. In particular, specifically targeting the areas in the immunologic cascade that may be the central drivers for the development of psoriasis could lead to better therapy. The techniques of genetic engineering and the technology to produce bioengineered molecules in large quantities have given clinicians the ability specifically to target psoriasis and other inflammatory diseases. These biologic medications truly bridge the gap between the identification of the pathophysiologic processes of psoriasis and the treatment of patients suffering from this disease.