Anti‐interleukin‐31‐antibodies ameliorate scratching behaviour in NC/Nga mice: a model of atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Background: Interleukin‐31 (IL‐31), a novel cytokine, is upregulated in atopic dermatitis skin lesions in humans and skin lesions in the NC/Nga mice, a murine model for atopic dermatitis. Objective: Here, we investigated the effect of a monoclonal IL‐31 antibody on scratching behaviour, weight gain and dermatitis in NC/Nga mice. Methods: Mice were divided into three groups, n = 10 in each group. Mice were given monoclonal IL‐31 rat‐anti‐mouse antibody 10 mg/kg or albumin intraperitoneally every fifth day for seven weeks. In addition, the mice in one group were not exposed to any form of intervention. The dermatitis score was clinically assessed twice a week. The scratching behaviour was automatically detected and objectively evaluated. Results: Intervention with IL‐31 antibody 10 mg/kg intraperitoneally every fifth day in NC/Nga mice from age 7 weeks reduced the scratching behaviour, but did not have any impact on weight gain or dermatitis. Conclusion: IL‐31 antibody reduces scratching behaviour in an atopic dermatitis‐like murine model during the onset of clinical skin manifestations. Our findings suggest IL‐31 antibody as a new potential therapeutic approach for pruritus in atopic dermatitis and other pruritic diseases.