Atopic dermatitis (AD), also referred to as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting more than 9.6 million children and 16.5 million adults in the United States. AD is characterized by an overactive immune system that causes damage to the skin barrier, leaving it dry, itchy, and prone to rashes. AD may come and go throughout life and patients can experience severe flares. The condition can cause poor quality of life by causing social stigma, impacting the ability to interact with family and friends, interrupting sleep due to intense itching and/or painful skin, and leading to anxiety, stress and depression with an increased risk of suicide.
Atopic dermatitis affects more than 9.6 million children and 16.5 million adults in the United States.”
J&J’s approach to Atopic dermatitis
Johnson & Johnson is investigating several potential therapies targeting different inflammatory pathways and processes, which may open promising new frontiers in AD treatment. Our approach builds on discoveries about the role of immune-response pathways in causing specific symptoms, a targeted strategy that could lead to more personalized patient care.
A portion of our research in AD focuses on artificial proteins known as bispecific antibodies that, true to their name, target two immune-system pathways at the same time. Bispecifics are thought to target selected inflammatory pathways potentially limiting broad suppression of the entire immune system. By targeting proven disease pathways, we are creating the potential to provide best-in-disease therapeutics with high bar efficacy for patients with moderate to severe AD and other immune-mediated diseases.
