Biologic
UniProt P20333
Etanercept
Enbrel
- Mechanism of action
- TNF receptor–Fc fusion protein (decoy receptor)
- In plain language
- A lab-made decoy receptor that soaks up TNF-alpha before it can trigger inflammation, calming an overactive immune response.
- How it works
- Etanercept is a dimeric fusion protein consisting of the extracellular ligand-binding domain of the human 75-kDa (p75) TNF receptor linked to the Fc portion of human IgG1. It competitively binds soluble and membrane-bound TNF-alpha, preventing these cytokines from engaging their native cell-surface receptors and rendering them biologically inactive. By intercepting TNF before receptor engagement, etanercept downregulates downstream inflammatory signaling, including expression of adhesion molecules and cytokines involved in leukocyte activation and tissue damage.
- Therapeutic applications
- FDA-approved for adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Also approved for pediatric patients 2 and older with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis and juvenile psoriatic arthritis, and for pediatric patients 4 and older with chronic moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
- Class
- Fusion protein
- Therapeutic area
- Immunology
View
Related compounds