Calcineurin

The activated NFATc is then translocated into the nucleus, where it upregulates the expression of interleukin 2 (IL-2), which, in turn, stimulates the growth and differentiation of the T cell response.

Calcineurin inhibitors are prescribed for adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as a single drug or in combination with methotrexate.

It is also prescribed for: psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, acute ocular Behçet's disease, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, adult and juvenile polymyositis and dermatomyositis, adult and juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus, adult lupus membranous nephritis, systemic sclerosis, aplastic anemia, steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome, atopic dermatitis, severe corticosteroid-dependent asthma, severe ulcerative colitis, pemphigus vulgaris, myasthenia gravis, and dry eye disease, with or without Sjögren's syndrome (administered as ophthalmic emulsion).

[4] Calcineurin is linked to receptors for several brain chemicals including glutamate, dopamine and GABA.

[10] Calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus and ciclosporin are used to suppress the immune system in organ allotransplant recipients to prevent rejection of the transplanted tissue.