Spondyloarthropathies are characterized by a distinct pattern of inflammation at distinct anatomical sites and are associated with elevated expression of interleukin 23 (IL-23). Daniel Cua and his colleagues identify an IL-23–responsive CD4−CD8− T cell population located within entheses. Systemic overexpression of IL-23 activates these cells and recapitulates aspects of the human disease in mice, and neutralization of IL-17 and IL-22 decreases pathology, suggesting new therapeutic targets for these disorders.
- Jonathan P Sherlock
- Barbara Joyce-Shaikh
- Daniel J Cua