Immunotherapy in inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease affects an increasing number of patients worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity. The dysregulation of the immune system with increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines and increased mucosal expression of vascular adhesion molecules play an important role in its pathogenesis. Strategies targeting TNF-alpha and alpha4-integrin have led to the development of novel therapies for treatment of patients with IBD. This article discusses the efficacy of immunologic agents currently approved for treating Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis and reviews the risks and challenges associated with their use.