anifrolumab

Anifrolumab is a fully human IgG1κ monoclonal antibody used as an add-on treatment for adults with moderate to severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who are receiving standard therapy. It works by selectively binding to subunit 1 of the type I interferon receptor (IFNAR1), thereby blocking the activity of all type I interferons, including IFN-α, IFN-β, and IFN-ω. This blockade inhibits downstream inflammatory signaling and gene expression associated with SLE pathogenesis. Anifrolumab also induces internalization of IFNAR1, further reducing receptor availability on cell surfaces. The Fc region contains three mutations (L234F/L235E/P331S) to reduce effector functions such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Developed by MedImmune/AstraZeneca, it was first approved in the US in July 2021 and is considered a first-in-class medication for SLE[2][3][5][6].

Brand names

Saphnelo

Other names

anifrolumab-fnia