belimumab + rituximab

This entry refers to an observational research study conducted by the University of Cagliari titled "BAFF-var as a Biomarker of Response to B-depletive Treatment in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Rheumatoid Arthritis." The study evaluates the BAFF-var polymorphism as a prognostic biomarker for patients receiving either belimumab or rituximab. **Belimumab** (Benlysta) is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to soluble B-cell activating factor (BAFF), preventing it from binding to its receptors on B-cells; it is used in the study for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). **Rituximab** (Rituxan) is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that targets the CD20 protein primarily found on the surface of immune system B-cells, leading to their depletion; it is used in the study for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The research aims to determine if the BAFF-var genetic variant influences clinical and immunological responses to these B-cell targeted therapies.

Brand names

BenlystaRituxan