Anti-TNF antibodies have revolutionized the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. With simultaneous submission of ustekinumab, a fully human antibody to the common p40 subunit of the cytokines interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, competition in the treatment of psoriasis is scheduled for the near future. The IL-12 and IL-23 cytokine family is the master regulator of the TH1 pathway which drives major chronic inflammatory diseases, including Crohn's disease, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. The IL-12 cytokine triggers the immune response of the T cell known as T helper type 1, or TH1. T cells play a critical role in the coordination of the body’s immune response, and while TH1 cells are normally involved in the body’s defense against intracellular attack by bacteria and other micro-organisms, an overactive TH1 response can lead to various autoimmune or inflammatory diseases. Preclinical concerns about an impaired host-defense competence so far have not been confirmed in clinical trials.

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