GENETIC VARIATIONS IN THE INTERLEUKIN-6 RECEPTOR GENE AS PREDICTORS OF THE RESPONSE OF PATIENTS TO TREATMENT WITH INTERLEUKIN-6 RECEPTOR INHIBITORS

摘要

The present invention relates to a method for predicting the response of patients to treatment with Interleukin-6 Receptor (IL6R) inhibitors, such as antibodies directed against the IL6R. The method comprises the analysis of one or more genetic variations, in particular single nucleotide polymorphisms, in or associated with the Interleukin-6 Receptor gene. The present invention further relates to a kit for use in predicting the response of patients to treatment with IL6R inhibitors, such as Tocilizumab. The patients suffers from rheumatoid arthritis.