| abstract |
The invention relates to antibodies and proteins containing their antigen-binding portion, which specifically bind to the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-17A. More specifically, the invention relates to specific antibodies and proteins that are antagonists of IL-17A (inhibit the activity of IL-17A and IL-17AF), are able to inhibit IL-17A-induced cytokine production in in vitro assays and have an inhibitory effect in an arthritic antigen-induced model in vivo. In addition, the invention relates to compositions and methods of using said antibodies and proteins for treating pathological disorders that can be treated by inhibiting IL-17A or IL17AF-mediated activity, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), lupus nephritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma or cystic fibrosis or other autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. |