@article{103633,
  keywords = {Hansen’s disease, Type II reaction, Multidrug therapy, Thalidomide, Optimal control, optimal drug regimen ,  Forward-backward sweep},
  author = {Ramanjaneyulu C and Vamsi D},
  title = {Mathematical modeling of type II lepra reactions: Cytokine dynamics and the impact of multi drug therapy (MDT) and thalidomide},
  abstract = {<p>This study presents three mathematical models to analyze the progression and treatment of Type II lepra reactions in leprosy, driven by the dysregulation of eight key cytokine biomarkers. The first model uses 11 compartments to simulate direct drug effects, while the second and third models expand to 13 compartments to incorporate indirect drug actions, with the third including a delayed dual dose approach. Model validation through bacterial growth heat maps and optimal control simulations via the forward-backward sweep method reveal that a combination of MDT and thalidomide is more effective than MDT alone in regulating cytokine levels and reducing bacterial burden. The results emphasize the importance of cytokine modulation in the prevention of Type II lepra reactions.</p>
},
  year = {2026},
  journal = {Next Research},
  volume = {10},
  month = {08/2026},
  publisher = {Elsevier BV},
  issn = {3050-4759},
  doi = {10.1016/j.nexres.2026.101922},
  language = {ENG},
}