NYU COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY

Baricitinib (Olumiant), used for rheumatoid arthritis, may treat Sjögren’s disease by suppressing malfunctioning immune signals, per lab mice study in Science Translational Medicine. Researchers found a defect in regulatory T cells and over-activation of cells producing interferon gamma, critical for salivary gland dysfunction in mice. Baricitinib improved saliva production and inflammation in mice, with strong genetic correlation between mice and humans. Clinical trials needed for human efficacy.

Baricitinib, used for rheumatoid arthritis, may treat Sjögren’s disease by suppressing malfunctioning immune signals, according to a mouse study in Science Translational Medicine. Researchers found a genetic defect in T cells leads to excess interferon gamma, causing dry mouth and eyes. Baricitinib improved saliva production and reduced inflammation in mice, with human genetic correlation suggesting potential for treatment, pending clinical trials.