IL-31 antibodies are monoclonal or polyclonal reagents designed to bind IL-31 or its receptor (IL-31RA/OSMRβ). These antibodies block IL-31 signaling, which activates pathways such as JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT, and MAPK, critical for inflammation and itch . IL-31 itself is a four-helix bundle cytokine structurally related to IL-6 family members but signals via a unique heterodimeric receptor .
IL-31 antibodies inhibit IL-31 binding to its receptor, disrupting downstream pathways:
Antibodies targeting IL-31RA (e.g., lokivetmab) have shown efficacy in reducing itch and dermatitis in preclinical models .
IL-31 antibodies are used in:
Diagnostics: Detecting IL-31 in ELISA, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry .
Therapeutics: Managing AD, allergic asthma, and pruritic skin diseases .
Mouse Models: Anti-IL-31RA antibodies reduced scratching behavior and dermatitis in AD-like models, independent of histamine or opioids .
Neuroimmune Regulation: IL-31 activation of sensory neurons releases calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which suppresses type 2 inflammation in chronic allergen exposure .
Atopic Dermatitis: Elevated IL-31 correlates with disease severity and pruritus. Anti-IL-31RA therapy reduced serum IgE and Th2 cytokines in trials .
Parasitic Infections: IL-31RA knockout mice showed enhanced mucosal immunity against Trichuris muris, suggesting IL-31's immunoregulatory role .
Lokivetmab: Approved for canine AD, it reduced pruritus scores by 50% within 24 hours .
Human Trials: Anti-IL-31 antibodies (e.g., nemolizumab) improved AD symptoms in Phase III trials, with sustained itch reduction .