Dupilumab, a newer biologic for severe asthma, blocks the shared receptor component of which two cytokines to reduce Type 2 airway inflammation?

• A IL-5 and IL-13 via the IL-5Ralpha chain
• B IL-4 and IL-13 via the IL-4Ralpha chain (IL-4Rα/IL-13Rα1 complex) ✓
• C IL-33 and TSLP via the ST2 receptor
• D IgE and IL-6 via shared gp130 signalling

Explanation

Dupilumab is a human monoclonal antibody targeting the IL-4 receptor alpha (IL-4Rα) chain, which is shared between the Type I IL-4 receptor (IL-4Rα + γc) and the Type II receptor complex (IL-4Rα + IL-13Rα1). Blocking IL-4Rα simultaneously inhibits both IL-4 (critical for Th2 differentiation and IgE class-switching) and IL-13 (promoting airway hyperreactivity, goblet cell metaplasia, fibrosis) signalling. This dual blockade reduces eosinophilia, IgE, and Type 2 airway inflammation. Mepolizumab/benralizumab target IL-5 (option A). Tezepelumab targets TSLP (option C).

Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.