Abstract: Novel methods and drug products for treating inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and associated arthritides are disclosed. The methods and products employ various serum markers of bone and cartilage metabolism or destruction, including cartilage oligomer matrix protein (COMP) and Receptor activator of NFB ligand (RANKL), as biomarkers to assess the effect of IL-17A antagonists on joint destruction in inflammatory joint diseases.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for the treatment of immune disorders, such as autoimmune diseases, or cancers, involving combination therapy with agents that inhibit the development or maintenance of Th17 cells. Treatment regimens are provided in which an antagonist of a pro-inflammatory cytokine is administered for a time sufficient to alleviate signs and symptoms of an acute phase flare-up of the autoimmune disease, or cancer, and treatment with an antagonist of IL-23 is continued for a longer time to prevent recurrence of the acute event. Antagonists of PGE2 and CD161 are also disclosed for use in treatment of autoimmune, inflammatory and proliferative disorders.