Recent advances in immunometabolism in rheumatic diseases.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Aberrant autoreactive innate and adaptive immune responses cause systemic autoimmune diseases. Autoimmunity has been linked to abnormal metabolic states, and immunometabolism has emerged as a critical field in understanding the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases. We aimed to explore the latest research on metabolic reprogramming in various immune cell types, including T cells, B cells, neutrophils, dendritic cells, monocytes, and macrophages, in the context of rheumatic diseases.

Recent findings: Each immune cell utilizes preferred metabolic pathways, and the cell activation dramatically modifies metabolic status. The inhibition of these pathways alters cell survival, differentiation, proliferation, and cytokine production - all of which contribute to rheumatic disease progression.

Summary: Targeting metabolic pathways or introducing anti-inflammatory metabolites, such as itaconate, could be novel therapeutic strategies for rheumatic diseases. Further research should focus on strategies for translating basic research findings to bedside applications.