IL17 genetic variants impact the response and safety of TNFi treatment in rheumatoid arthritis patients from Bahia, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that can lead to progressive disability. TNF inhibitors (TNFi) have shown promise in improving disease progression and prognosis; however, only 60% to 70% of patients respond well. Genetic variations have been linked to this therapeutic failure. Genetic variants in the IL17 gene are associated with TNFi therapy responses and RA susceptibility, but few studies have explored this in the Brazilian population. This study assesses variants in the IL-17 pathway (rs763780, rs2275913, rs3819024) in RA patients undergoing TNFi treatment in Salvador, BA.

METHODS

A total of 497 individuals (294 RA patients, 203 healthy controls) were included. Plasma levels of IL-17, IL-1β, TNF, and other cytokines were measured in a subpopulation. Meta-analysis of published studies was conducted to consolidate associations between IL and 17 variants and RA susceptibility.

RESULTS

No significant associations were found between SNVs and RA susceptibility in the cohort, while the meta-analysis revealed protective and risk associations. The rs3819024-G allele was associated with improved TNFi response, particularly in infliximab users, whereas rs2275913-AA carriers had higher risk of treatment.