A humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to IL-12 and IL-23 and is used as a DERMATOLOGIC AGENT in the treatment of patients with plaque PSORIASIS who have not responded to other therapies.

An orally available, human, IgG1kappa, monoclonal antibody directed against the p40 protein subunit of both interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IL-23, with immunomodulating activity. Upon administration, ustekinumab binds to the p40 subunit of IL-12 and IL-23, blocking the binding of IL-12 and IL-23 to their interleukin receptors. This inhibits IL-12- and IL-23-mediated signaling and inhibits differentiation of CD4 positive T-cells into Th1 and Th17 cells. This prevents Th1- and Th17-mediated responses and cytokine production. This may prevent graft versus host disease (GVHD). IL-12 and IL-23, cytokines that play a key role in the regulation of the immune system, are upregulated in immune-mediated inflammatory disorders. Both Th1 and Th17 cells play a crucial role in GVHD.