Molecular-Targeted and Cell-Based Therapies for Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands, in particular the salivary and lachrymal glands. The etiology and pathogenic mechanisms of SS remain largely unknown. Accordingly there are no treatments that completely reverse the disease in patients. The purpose of this invited review is not to provide a comprehensive overview of treatment approaches for SS, but rather to comment on emerging molecular targeted therapies and cell-based therapies. Although a number of molecular-targeted therapies are currently available for autoimmune diseases, very few but Rituximab and Epratuzumab appear to be efficacious for patients with SS, suggesting the importance of an enhanced understanding of SS pathogenesis. Cell-based therapy has been demonstrated as a promising approach to treat salivary gland dysfunction in SS mouse models. Further assessment for functional restoration of damaged salivary glands in organotypic culture or in SS patients is necessary to translate the cellbased therapies into the clinic.