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Nelson HA, Banerjee D, Novis CL, Deane KD, Feser ML, Nandakumar V. A comparison of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides (CCP3 and CCP3.1) autoantibody tests in rheumatoid arthritis. Pract Lab Med 2024; 41:e00420. [PMID: 39161944 PMCID: PMC11332063 DOI: 10.1016/j.plabm.2024.e00420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) are a specific serological biomarker used in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In clinical practice ACPA can be identified using immunoassays targeting synthetic cyclic citrullinated peptides (CCP). The 3rd generation anti-CCP IgG antibody (CCP3) offers improved sensitivity compared to the earlier versions. Recently, CCP3.1, capable of detecting both IgG and IgA antibodies, was introduced to enhance sensitivity, especially in patients with early RA. Methods We assessed serum CCP3.1 against CCP3 in 331 subjects undergoing RA panel serology, comprising 136 patients with RA and 195 patients without RA. Sera were tested for anti-CCP IgG (CCP3) and anti-CCP IgG/IgA (CCP3.1) antibodies. Clinical performance of these tests was compared at manufacturer-suggested cutoffs. A separate set of 81 patients with a diagnosis of RA by 2010 criteria and whose samples were obtained from within 1-year of RA diagnosis was similarly assessed to evaluate assay performance in an independent clinical RA cohort. Results Overall diagnostic accuracy was similar; CCP3 had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.88, CCP3.1 had an AUC of 0.89. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) for CCP3 were 79 %, 91 %, 86 %, and 86 %, respectively. For CCP3.1, sensitivity was 78 %, specificity 93 %, PPV 89 %, NPV 86 %. Both assays demonstrated excellent agreement; positive percent agreement of 94 % and negative percent agreement of 99 %. Conclusion Our findings indicate comparable diagnostic accuracy between CCP3 and CCP3.1 assays in these clinical cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather A. Nelson
- ARUP Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Dipanwita Banerjee
- ARUP Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Camille L. Novis
- ARUP Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kevin D. Deane
- University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Marie L. Feser
- University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Vijayalakshmi Nandakumar
- ARUP Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Leavy OC, Kawano-Dourado L, Stewart ID, Quint JK, Solomon JJ, Borie R, Crestani B, Wain LV, Jenkins G, Dieudé P, Minelli C. Rheumatoid arthritis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a bidirectional Mendelian randomisation study. Thorax 2024; 79:538-544. [PMID: 38649271 PMCID: PMC11137470 DOI: 10.1136/thorax-2023-220856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern of lung injury is a key feature of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and is also observed in up to 40% of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD). The RA-UIP phenotype could result from either a causal relationship of RA on UIP or vice versa, or from a simple co-occurrence of RA and IPF due to shared demographic, genetic or environmental risk factors. METHODS We used two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomisation (MR) to test the hypothesis of a causal effect of RA on UIP and of UIP on RA, using variants from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of RA (separately for seropositive (18 019 cases and 991 604 controls) and seronegative (8515 cases and 1 015 471 controls) RA) and of IPF (4125 cases and 20 464 controls) as genetic instruments. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the results to violations of the MR assumptions. FINDINGS IPF showed a significant causal effect on seropositive RA, with developing IPF increasing the risk of seropositive RA (OR=1.06, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.08, p<0.001) which was robust under all models. For the MR in the other direction, seropositive RA showed a significant protective effect on IPF (OR=0.93; 95% CI: 0.87 to 0.99; p=0.032), but the effect was not significant when sensitivity analyses were applied. This was likely because of bias due to exclusion of patients with RA from among the cases in the IPF GWAS, or possibly because our genetic instruments did not fully capture the effect of the complex human leucocyte antigen region, the strongest RA genetic risk factor. INTERPRETATION Our findings support the hypothesis that RA-UIP may be due to a cause-effect relationship between UIP and RA, rather than due to a coincidental occurrence of IPF in patients with RA. The significant causal effect of IPF on seropositive RA suggests that pathomechanisms involved in the development of UIP may promote RA, and this may help inform future guidelines on screening for ILD in patients with RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia C Leavy
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Leicester, UK
| | - Leticia Kawano-Dourado
- Hcor Research Institute, Hcor, São Paulo, Brazil
- Pulmonary Division, Heart Institute (InCor), University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Iain D Stewart
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- National Institue of Health and Care Research, Imperial Biomedical Research Unit, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jennifer K Quint
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- National Institutue of Health and Care Excellence Imperial Biomedical Research Unit, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Joshua J Solomon
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Raphael Borie
- Service de Pneumologie A Hôpital Bichat, APHP, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PHERE, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Crestani
- Service de Pneumologie A Hôpital Bichat, APHP, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PHERE, Paris, France
| | - Louise V Wain
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Leicester, UK
| | - Gisli Jenkins
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- National Institue of Health and Care Research, Imperial Biomedical Research Unit, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Philippe Dieudé
- Service de Pneumologie A Hôpital Bichat, APHP, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PHERE, Paris, France
| | - Cosetta Minelli
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Li PF, Li S, Zheng PS. Reproductive Effect by Rheumatoid Arthritis and Related Autoantibodies. Rheumatol Ther 2024; 11:239-256. [PMID: 38376734 PMCID: PMC10920578 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-023-00634-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common inflammatory arthritis in women. The effects of RA on the reproductive system are usually overlooked, as RA is not diagnosed until later in reproductive age. Whether RA itself or its related rheumatoid antibodies have an impact on female reproductive function has long been a thought-provoking issue. In brief, relevant epidemiological evidence has shown that women affected by RA are more likely to have coexisting reproductive disorders, including infertility, endometriosis, and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), or to subsequently develop them. Furthermore, linkage between RA and pregnancy loss (PL) as well as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is also well known, albeit controversial in available evidence. RA and reproductive disorders appear to share a similar inflammatory immune response and genetic background. The stress experienced by patients with RA may affect their reproductive choices to some extent. Notably, few studies have explored the impact of rheumatoid antibodies such as rheumatoid factors (RFs) and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) on reproductive disorders. Although it has been mentioned that the rate of RF and/or ACPA positivity is higher in women with a history of PL and POI, the clinical relevance of this relationship and underlying mechanisms still need to be further clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Fen Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 76 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, The People's Republic of China
| | - Shan Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 76 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, The People's Republic of China
| | - Peng-Sheng Zheng
- Xi'an Peng-Sheng Reproductive Medicine Clinic, Xi'an Peng-Sheng Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 76 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, The People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of People's Republic of China, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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Hammam N, El-Husseiny PN, Al-Adle SS, Samy N, Elsaid NY, El-Essawi DF, Mohamed EF, Fawzy SM, El Bakry SA, Nassr M, Nasef SI, El-Saadany HM, Elwan S, Gamal NM, Moshrif A, Hammam O, El Shereef RR, Ismail F, Tharwat S, Mosa DM, Elazeem MIA, Abdelaleem EA, Gheita TA. Clinical implications of seropositive and seronegative autoantibody status in rheumatoid arthritis patients: A comparative multicentre observational study. RHEUMATOLOGY AND IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2024; 5:57-65. [PMID: 38571932 PMCID: PMC10985701 DOI: 10.1515/rir-2024-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated protein (anti-CCP) have been used to improve the diagnosis and prognosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, their association with RA disease phenotypes, individually and in combination, is not well studied. The aim of the study was to compare patients' and disease characteristics, activity and severity in double seronegative (DNRA), single seropositive RF, single seropositive anti-CCP and double seropositive (DPRA) patients. Methods Adults subjects with RA from Egyptian College of Rheumatology (ECR) database who had RF and anti-CCP results available were included. Demographic, clinical features, disease activity score 28 (DAS28), Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and laboratory data were collected and compared among different RA groups. Results 5268 RA patients with mean age of 44.9±11.6 years, and 4477 (85%) were females. 2900 (55%) had DPRA, 892 (16.9%) had single positive RF, 597 (11.3%) had single positive anti-CCP while 879 (16.7%) had DNRA. Patients with DPRA had significantly high percentage of metabolic syndrome (19.3%, P < 0.001), and functional impairment using HAQ (P = 0.01). Older age (RRR [relative risk ratio]: 1.03, 95%CI: 1.0, 1.0, P = 0.029), greater DAS28 (RRR: 1.51, 95%CI: 1.2, 1.9, P < 0.001), higher steroid use (RRR: 2.4, 95%CI: 1.36, 4.25, P = 0.002) were at higher risk of DPRA while longer disease duration (RRR: 1.08, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.16, P = 0.017) and fibromyalgia syndrome (RRR: 2.54, 95%CI: 1.10, 5.88, P = 0.028) were associated with higher odds of single positive RF status. Conclusion Dual antibody-positive status has higher disease activity and severity, and higher chance of development of metabolic syndrome; highlighting the implicated role of inflammation, atherogenesis and cardiovascular disease risk in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevin Hammam
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Suzan S. Al-Adle
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nermeen Samy
- Internal Medicine Department, Rheumatology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nora Y. Elsaid
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dina F. El-Essawi
- Health Radiation Research Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Rheumatology Clinic, (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman F. Mohamed
- Internal Medicine Department, Rheumatology Unit, Faculty of Medicine (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samar M. Fawzy
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samah A. El Bakry
- Internal Medicine Department, Rheumatology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maha Nassr
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Samah I. Nasef
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez-Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Hanan M. El-Saadany
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Gharbia, Egypt
| | - Shereen Elwan
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Gharbia, Egypt
| | - Nada M. Gamal
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Abdelhfeez Moshrif
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Osman Hammam
- Department of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, New Valley University, New Valley, Egypt
| | | | - Faten Ismail
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Samar Tharwat
- Internal Medicine Department, Rheumatology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Dakahlia, Egypt
| | - Doaa Mosad Mosa
- Department of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Mansoura University Hospitals, Mansoura University Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mervat I Abd Elazeem
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Enas A. Abdelaleem
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Tamer A. Gheita
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - on behalf of The Egyptian College of Rheumatology (ECR) Rheumatoid Arthritis (ECR-RA) Study Group
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Internal Medicine Department, Rheumatology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
- Health Radiation Research Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Rheumatology Clinic, (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
- Internal Medicine Department, Rheumatology Unit, Faculty of Medicine (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez-Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Gharbia, Egypt
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
- Department of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, New Valley University, New Valley, Egypt
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
- Internal Medicine Department, Rheumatology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Dakahlia, Egypt
- Department of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Mansoura University Hospitals, Mansoura University Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura, Egypt
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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5
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Ozanne J, Lewis M, Schwenzer A, Kurian D, Brady J, Pritchard D, McLachlan G, Farquharson C, Midwood KS. Extracellular matrix complexity in biomarker studies: a novel assay detecting total serum tenascin-C reveals different distribution to isoform-specific assays. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1275361. [PMID: 38077374 PMCID: PMC10703424 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1275361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Serum biomarkers are the gold standard in non-invasive disease diagnosis and have tremendous potential as prognostic and theranostic tools for patient stratification. Circulating levels of extracellular matrix molecules are gaining traction as an easily accessible means to assess tissue pathology. However, matrix molecules are large, multimodular proteins that are subject to a vast array of post-transcriptional and post-translational modifications. These modifications often occur in a tissue- and/or disease-specific manner, generating hundreds of different variants, each with distinct biological roles. Whilst this complexity can offer unique insight into disease processes, it also has the potential to confound biomarker studies. Tenascin-C is a pro-inflammatory matrix protein expressed at low levels in most healthy tissues but elevated in, and associated with the pathogenesis of, a wide range of autoimmune diseases, fibrosis, and cancer. Analysis of circulating tenascin-C has been widely explored as a disease biomarker. Hundreds of different tenascin-C isoforms can be generated by alternative splicing, and this protein is also modified by glycosylation and citrullination. Current enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) are used to measure serum tenascin-C using antibodies, recognising sites within domains that are alternatively spliced. These studies, therefore, report only levels of specific isoforms that contain these domains, and studies on the detection of total tenascin-C are lacking. As such, circulating tenascin-C levels may be underestimated and/or biologically relevant isoforms overlooked. We developed a highly specific and sensitive ELISA measuring total tenascin-C down to 0.78ng/ml, using antibodies that recognise sites in constitutively expressed domains. In cohorts of people with different inflammatory and musculoskeletal diseases, levels of splice-specific tenascin-C variants were lower than and distributed differently from total tenascin-C. Neither total nor splice-specific tenascin-C levels correlated with the presence of autoantibodies to citrullinated tenascin-C in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Elevated tenascin-C was not restricted to any one disease and levels were heterogeneous amongst patients with the same disease. These data confirm that its upregulation is not disease-specific, instead suggest that different molecular endotypes or disease stages exist in which pathology is associated with, or independent of, tenascin-C. This immunoassay provides a novel tool for the detection of total tenascin-C that is critical for further biomarker studies. Differences between the distribution of tenascin-C variants and total tenascin-C have implications for the interpretation of studies using isoform-targeted assays. These data highlight the importance of assay design for the detection of multimodular matrix molecules and reveal that there is still much to learn about the intriguingly complex biological roles of distinct matrix proteoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Ozanne
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Mel Lewis
- R&D Department Axis-Shield Diagnostics, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Ltd, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Anja Schwenzer
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic Kurian
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jeff Brady
- R&D Department Axis-Shield Diagnostics, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Ltd, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - David Pritchard
- R&D Department Axis-Shield Diagnostics, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Ltd, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Gerry McLachlan
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Farquharson
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kim S. Midwood
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Rasmussen EB, Thiele LS, Stengaard-Pedersen K, Hetland ML, Hørslev-Petersen K, Junker P, Østergaard M, Hansen AS, Hvid M, Deleuran B, Greisen SR. Baseline serum levels of IgA anti-cyclic citrullinated protein antibodies in early rheumatoid arthritis predict radiographic progression after 11 years of treatment: a secondary analysis of the CIMESTRA study. Scand J Rheumatol 2023; 52:493-497. [PMID: 36255383 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2022.2127245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Smoking and periodontitis are risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA), suggesting a break of tolerance on mucosal surfaces. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies are part of the mucosal immune system. The dominant autoantibodies in RA are anti-cyclic citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), and IgG and IgA subclasses exist simultaneously. This study aimed to investigate the association of ACPA IgA subtypes with disease activity and long-term radiographic outcomes in RA, compared with ACPA IgG. METHOD Total ACPA IgG, IgA, IgA1, and IgA2 were quantified in serum from patients with early RA (n = 97). Patient characteristics, IgM rheumatoid factor (IgM-RF) status, clinical and biochemical disease activity scores, and radiographic status evaluated by total Sharp score (TSS), were assessed at baseline and after 2 and 11 years of treatment. RESULTS All patients with ACPA IgA also had ACPA IgG. ACPA IgA positivity was associated with IgM-RF and male gender. Both ACPA IgA and IgG levels at baseline were weakly associated with disease activity markers. Baseline ACPA IgA and IgG did not show a linear correlation with radiographic status after 10 years, but could predict radiographic progression (ΔTSS ≥ 5 from 0 to 11 years), with positive likelihood ratios of 3.7 and 4.0, respectively. CONCLUSION ACPA IgA and IgG were weakly associated with disease activity in early RA. RA patients with a ΔTSS ≥ 5 after 11 years of treatment had higher ACPA IgG and ACPA IgA levels at baseline; however, none of the ACPA subtypes was superior in predicting long-term radiographic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- E B Rasmussen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - L S Thiele
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - K Stengaard-Pedersen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - M L Hetland
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - K Hørslev-Petersen
- Department of Rheumatology, King Christian X Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Graasten, Denmark
- Institute for Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - P Junker
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - M Østergaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - A S Hansen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - M Hvid
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - B Deleuran
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - S R Greisen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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7
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Trier NH, Houen G. Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies as biomarkers in rheumatoid arthritis. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2023; 23:895-911. [PMID: 37578277 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2023.2247986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The serological biomarker anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) may have several functions but is especially important for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) along with clinical symptoms. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of ACPAs, which are useful in RA diagnostics and may improve our understanding of disease etiology. PubMed was searched with combinations of words related to antibodies recognizing epitopes containing the post-translationally modified amino acid citrulline in combination with rheumatoid arthritis; cyclic citrullinated peptide, CCP, anti-CCP, anti-citrullinated protein antibodies, ACPA, citrullination, peptide/protein arginine deiminase, PAD, filaggrin, vimentin, keratin, collagen, perinuclear factor, EBNA1, EBNA2, and others. From this search, we made a qualitative extract of publications relevant to the discovery, characterization, and clinical use of these antibodies in relation to RA. We highlight significant findings and identify areas for improvement. EXPERT OPINION ACPAs have high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for RA and recognize citrullinated epitopes from several proteins. The best-performing single epitope originates from Epstein-Barr Virus nuclear antigen 2 and contains a central Cit-Gly motif, which is recognized by ACPAS when located in a flexible peptide structure. In addition, ACPAs may also have prognostic value, especially in relation to early treatment, although ACPAs' main function is to aid in the diagnosis of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gunnar Houen
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
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8
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Sokolova MV, Hartmann F, Sieghart D, Bang H, Steiner G, Kleyer A, Schett G, Steffen U. Antibodies against citrullinated proteins of IgA isotype are associated with progression to rheumatoid arthritis in individuals at-risk. RMD Open 2023; 9:rmdopen-2022-002705. [PMID: 36717186 PMCID: PMC9887702 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2022-002705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Events triggering disease outbreak in individuals at-risk for rheumatoid arthritis (RA at-risk) remain unclear, and the role of the various anticitrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) isotypes in this process is still to be established. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of IgA ACPA in RA at-risk individuals, their role in the transition from the RA at-risk status to RA and their dynamics during this transition. METHODS Cross-sectional measurement of serum IgA1 and IgA2 ACPA levels was conducted in healthy controls, RA at-risk individuals and patients with RA and compared with the frequency of RA development in at risk individuals during a follow-up of 14 months. In addition, longitudinal measurements of serum IgA1 and IgA2 ACPA levels prior to, at and after the onset of RA were performed. RESULTS Approximately two-thirds of RA at-risk individuals were positive for serum IgA1 and IgA2 ACPA in levels comparable to IgG ACPA positive patients with RA. IgA1, but not IgA2 ACPA positivity was associated with the transition from the RA at-risk state to RA within the following 14 months. Interestingly, during this transition process, IgA1 ACPA levels declined at RA onset and also thereafter during the early phase of RA. This decline was confirmed in a second, independent cohort. CONCLUSION Both IgA1 and IgA2 ACPA are present in RA at-risk individuals, but only IgA1 ACPA are associated with the progression to RA. The observed decline in serum IgA1 ACPA levels before the onset of RA might indicate starting barrier leakiness prior to disease outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Sokolova
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany,Medical Department I, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Fabian Hartmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Daniela Sieghart
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Guenter Steiner
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Arnd Kleyer
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Steffen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany .,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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9
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Romão VC, Fonseca JE. Disease mechanisms in preclinical rheumatoid arthritis: A narrative review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:689711. [PMID: 36059838 PMCID: PMC9437632 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.689711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, the concept of preclinical rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has become established. In fact, the discovery that disease mechanisms start years before the onset of clinical RA has been one of the major recent insights in the understanding of RA pathogenesis. In accordance with the complex nature of the disease, preclinical events extend over several sequential phases. In a genetically predisposed host, environmental factors will further increase susceptibility for incident RA. In the initial steps of preclinical disease, immune disturbance mechanisms take place outside the joint compartment, namely in mucosal surfaces, such as the lung, gums or gut. Herein, the persistent immunologic response to altered antigens will lead to breach of tolerance and trigger autoimmunity. In a second phase, the immune response matures and is amplified at a systemic level, with epitope spreading and widening of the autoantibody repertoire. Finally, the synovial and bone compartment are targeted by specific autoantibodies against modified antigens, initiating a local inflammatory response that will eventually culminate in clinically evident synovitis. In this review, we discuss the elaborate disease mechanisms in place during preclinical RA, providing a broad perspective in the light of current evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco C. Romão
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisbon Academic Medical Centre and European Reference Network on Rare Connective Tissue and Musculoskeletal Diseases Network (ERN-ReCONNET), Lisbon, Portugal
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Eurico Fonseca
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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10
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Derksen VFAM, Allaart CF, Van der Helm-Van Mil AHM, Huizinga TWJ, Toes REM, van der Woude D. In rheumatoid arthritis patients, total IgA1 and IgA2 levels are elevated: implications for the mucosal origin hypothesis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2022; 62:407-416. [PMID: 35416963 PMCID: PMC9788813 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mucosal initiated immune responses may be involved in the pathophysiology of RA. The most abundant immunoglobulin at mucosal surfaces is IgA, of which two subclasses exist: IgA1 and IgA2. IgA2 is mainly present at mucosal sites and has been ascribed pro-inflammatory properties. As IgA subclasses might provide insights into mucosal involvement and pro-inflammatory mechanisms, we investigated IgA responses in sera of RA patients. METHODS In two cohorts of RA patients, the EAC and IMPROVED, total IgA1 and IgA2 were measured by ELISA. Furthermore, IgA subclass levels of RF and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (anti-CCP2) were determined. The association of these IgA subclass levels with CRP and smoking was investigated. RESULTS Total IgA1 and IgA2 were increased in RA patients compared with healthy donors in both cohorts. This increase was more pronounced in seropositive RA vs seronegative RA. For RF and anti-CCP2, both IgA1 and IgA2 could be detected. No strong associations were found between IgA subclasses (total, RF and anti-CCP2) and CRP. In smoking RA patients, a trend towards a selective increase in total IgA2 and RF IgA1 and IgA2 was observed. CONCLUSION RA patients have raised IgA1 and IgA2 levels. No shift towards IgA2 was observed, indicating that the increase in total IgA is not due to translocation of mucosal IgA into the bloodstream. However, mucosal inflammation might play a role, given the association between smoking and total IgA2 levels. Despite its pro-inflammatory properties, IgA2 does not associate strongly with pro-inflammatory markers in RA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle F A M Derksen
- Correspondence to: Veerle Derksen, Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, C1-R-041, Albinusdreef 2, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands. E-mail:
| | | | - Annette H M Van der Helm-Van Mil
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden,Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom W J Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden
| | - René E M Toes
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden
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11
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Harrold LR, Connolly SE, Wittstock K, Zhuo J, Kelly S, Lehman T, Shan Y, Rebello S, Guo L, Khaychuk V. Baseline Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibody Status and Response to Abatacept or Non-TNFi Biologic/Targeted-Synthetic DMARDs: US Observational Study of Patients with RA. Rheumatol Ther 2022; 9:465-480. [PMID: 34940957 PMCID: PMC8964884 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-021-00401-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may respond to treatments differently based on their underlying serology and biomarker status, but real-world data comparing treatment responses to abatacept versus other non-TNFi biologic or targeted-synthetic DMARDs by anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) status remain limited. We assessed the association between ACPA status and response to treatment in patients with RA. METHODS Adults from CorEvitas' RA Registry were identified who initiated abatacept, rituximab, tocilizumab, or tofacitinib, and had ACPA measured at/prior to treatment initiation and at the 6-month follow-up visit. Three cohorts were included: abatacept/rituximab (2006-2019), abatacept/tocilizumab (2010-2019), and abatacept/tofacitinib (2012-2019). Patient characteristics at initiation were compared by ACPA status (positive [+], anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide-2 [anti-CCP2] ≥ 20 U/ml; negative [-], anti-CCP2 < 20 U/ml). Outcomes over 6 months: changes in Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI), modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (mHAQ), patient global assessment (PGA) scores, and proportion of patients achieving a clinical response. Adjusted mean differences and odds ratios were estimated using mixed-effects linear regression models. RESULTS Overall, 982 abatacept, 246 rituximab, 404 tocilizumab, and 429 tofacitinib initiators were identified. ACPA+ (vs. ACPA-) patients had longer disease duration and more erosive disease. During most time periods adjusted mean changes in CDAI, mHAQ, and PGA scores and the proportion of patients achieving a clinical response were significantly higher for ACPA+ versus ACPA- patients initiating abatacept. Adjusted mean change in PGA score and patient fatigue were significantly higher for ACPA+ versus ACPA- patients initiating rituximab. No significant differences were seen by ACPA status for patients initiating tocilizumab or tofacitinib. CONCLUSIONS Patients who initiated abatacept or rituximab and were ACPA+ had a greater clinical response at 6-month follow-up post index compared to patients who were ACPA- treated with the same biologic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie R Harrold
- CorEvitas, LLC, Waltham, MA, USA.
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | | | | | - Joe Zhuo
- Worldwide Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Bristol Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | | | | | - Ying Shan
- Department of Biostatistics, CorEvitas, LLC, Waltham, MA, USA
| | | | - Lin Guo
- Department of Biostatistics, CorEvitas, LLC, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Vadim Khaychuk
- US Medical Immunology and Fibrosis, Bristol Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ, USA
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12
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Jabado O, Maldonado MA, Schiff M, Weinblatt ME, Fleischmann R, Robinson WH, He A, Patel V, Greenfield A, Saini J, Galbraith D, Connolly SE. Differential Changes in ACPA Fine Specificity and Gene Expression in a Randomized Trial of Abatacept and Adalimumab in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Rheumatol Ther 2022; 9:391-409. [PMID: 34878629 PMCID: PMC8964842 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-021-00404-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The biologics abatacept and adalimumab have different mechanisms of action (MoAs). We analyzed data from patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated in AMPLE (NCT00929864) to explore the pharmacodynamic effects of abatacept or adalimumab on anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) and gene expression. METHODS AMPLE was a phase IIIb, 2-year, randomized, head-to-head trial of abatacept versus adalimumab. Post hoc analyses of baseline anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide-2 (anti-CCP2, an ACPA surrogate) positive (+) status and ACPA fine-specificity profiles over time, as well as transcriptional profiling (peripheral whole blood), were performed. RESULTS Of 646 patients treated (abatacept, n = 318; adalimumab, n = 328), ACPA and gene expression data were available from 508 and 566 patients, respectively. In anti-CCP2+ patients (n = 388), baseline fine specificities for most ACPAs were highly correlated; over 2 years, levels decreased with abatacept but not adalimumab. By year 2, expression of genes associated with T cell co-stimulation and antibody production was lower for abatacept versus adalimumab; expression of genes associated with proinflammatory signaling was lower for adalimumab versus abatacept. Treatment modulated the expression of T- and B-cell gene signatures, with differences in CD8+ T cells, activated T cells, plasma cells, B cells, natural killer cells (all lower with abatacept versus adalimumab), and polymorphonuclear leukocytes (higher with abatacept versus adalimumab). CONCLUSIONS In AMPLE, despite similar clinical outcomes, data showed that pharmacodynamic/genetic changes after 2 years of abatacept or adalimumab were consistent with drug MoAs. Further assessment of the relationship between such changes and clinical outcomes, including prediction of response, is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT00929864.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Roy Fleischmann
- Metroplex Clinical Research Center and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Aiqing He
- Bristol Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Sean E Connolly
- Bristol Myers Squibb, B4290 3401 Princeton Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ, 08648, USA.
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13
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Debreova M, Culenova M, Smolinska V, Nicodemou A, Csobonyeiova M, Danisovic L. Rheumatoid arthritis: From synovium biology to cell-based therapy. Cytotherapy 2022; 24:365-375. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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14
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Sokolova MV, Schett G, Steffen U. Autoantibodies in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Historical Background and Novel Findings. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2022; 63:138-151. [PMID: 34495490 PMCID: PMC9464122 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-021-08890-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Autoantibodies represent a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), with the rheumatoid factor (RF) and antibodies against citrullinated proteins (ACPA) being the most acknowledged ones. RA patients who are positive for RF and/or ACPA ("seropositive") in general display a different etiology and disease course compared to so-called "seronegative" patients. Still, the seronegative patient population is very heterogeneous and not well characterized. Due to the identification of new autoantibodies and advancements in the diagnosis of rheumatic diseases in the last years, the group of seronegative patients is constantly shrinking. Aside from antibodies towards various post-translational modifications, recent studies describe autoantibodies targeting some native proteins, further broadening the spectrum of recognized antigens. Next to the detection of new autoantibody groups, much research has been done to answer the question if and how autoantibodies contribute to the pathogenesis of RA. Since autoantibodies can be detected years prior to RA onset, it is a matter of debate whether their presence alone is sufficient to trigger the disease. Nevertheless, there is gathering evidence of direct autoantibody effector functions, such as stimulation of osteoclastogenesis and synovial fibroblast migration in in vitro experiments. In addition, autoantibody positive patients display a worse clinical course and stronger radiographic progression. In this review, we discuss current findings regarding different autoantibody types, the underlying disease-driving mechanisms, the role of Fab and Fc glycosylation and clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V. Sokolova
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Universitätstrasse 25a, 91054 Erlangen, Germany ,Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Universitätstrasse 25a, 91054 Erlangen, Germany ,Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Steffen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Universitätstrasse 25a, 91054 Erlangen, Germany ,Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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15
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Volkov M, Kampstra ASB, van Schie KA, Kawakami A, Tamai M, Kawashiri S, Maeda T, Huizinga TWJ, Toes REM, van der Woude D. Evolution of anti-modified protein antibody responses can be driven by consecutive exposure to different post-translational modifications. Arthritis Res Ther 2021; 23:298. [PMID: 34876234 PMCID: PMC8653599 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02687-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Besides anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA), rheumatoid arthritis patients (RA) often display autoantibody reactivities against other post-translationally modified (PTM) proteins, more specifically carbamylated and acetylated proteins. Immunizing mice with one particular PTM results in an anti-modified protein antibody (AMPA) response recognizing different PTM-antigens. Furthermore, human AMPA, isolated based on their reactivity to one PTM, cross-react with other PTMs. However, it is unclear whether the AMPA-reactivity profile is “fixed” in time or whether consecutive exposure to different PTMs can shape the evolving AMPA response towards a particular PTM. Methods Longitudinally collected serum samples of 8 human individuals at risk of RA and 5 with early RA were tested with ELISA, and titers were analyzed to investigate the evolution of the AMPA responses over time. Mice (13 per immunization group in total) were immunized with acetylated (or carbamylated) protein (ovalbumin) twice or cross-immunized with an acetylated and then a carbamylated protein (or vice versa) and their serum was analyzed for AMPA responses. Results Human data illustrated dynamic changes in AMPA-reactivity profiles in both individuals at risk of RA and in early RA patients. Mice immunized with either solely acetylated or carbamylated ovalbumin (AcOVA or CaOVA) developed reactivity against both acetylated and carbamylated antigens. Irrespective of the PTM-antigen used for the first immunization, a booster immunization with an antigen bearing the other PTM resulted in increased titers to the second/booster PTM. Furthermore, cross-immunization skewed the overall AMPA-response profile towards a relatively higher reactivity against the “booster” PTM. Conclusions The relationship between different reactivities within the AMPA response is dynamic. The initial exposure to a PTM-antigen induces cross-reactive responses that can be boosted by an antigen bearing this or other PTMs, indicating the formation of cross-reactive immunological memory. Upon subsequent exposure to an antigen bearing another type of PTM, the overall reactivity pattern can be skewed towards better recognition of the later encountered PTM. These data might explain temporal differences in the AMPA-response profile and point to the possibility that the PTM responsible for the initiation of the AMPA response may differ from the PTM predominantly recognized later in time. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-021-02687-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Volkov
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - A S B Kampstra
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - K A van Schie
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - A Kawakami
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - M Tamai
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - S Kawashiri
- Department of Community Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - T Maeda
- Department of General Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - T W J Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - R E M Toes
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - D van der Woude
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
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16
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He J, Ju J, Wang X. The current status of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies and citrullinated protein-reactive B cells in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 49:2475-2485. [PMID: 34855107 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-07034-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies are a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis. It is widely acknowledged that the presence of ACPAs is the result of the interaction of genes, the environment and epigenetic modifications. The mechanism by which the factors, especially citrullination and ACPA glycosylation, affect ACPAs is still unclear. In this article, we review the presence of the ACPAs in RA and their relationship with clinical manifestations. The pathogenicity of ACPAs and B cells in RA was also summarized. A growing body of evidence has shown that ACPA-positive patients have more serious bone erosion and destruction and poor clinical prognosis than ACPA-negative patients. Recently, with the direct study of citrullinated protein-reactive B cells, their role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis has been further understood. It indicates that further understanding of the mechanism of ACPAs and CP-reactive B cells would beneficial in the prevention and treatment of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia He
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - JiYu Ju
- Department of Immunology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - XiaoDong Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
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17
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Sokolova MV, Hagen M, Bang H, Schett G, Rech J, Steffen U. IgA anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (IgA ACPA) are associated with flares during DMARD tapering in rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:2124-2131. [PMID: 34508547 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A substantial proportion of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients flare upon withdrawal of disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), thus the definition of prognostic markers is crucial. Anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)-positivity has been identified as a risk factor for flare. However, only the role of IgG is established in this context, while the role of IgA ACPA is poorly defined. We thus aimed to investigate the role of IgA ACPA in flare of RA. METHODS Serum levels of IgA1 and IgA2 ACPA at baseline and after 12 months were measured in 108 patients from the randomized controlled RETRO study. RA patients in stable remission for at least 6 months at study recruitment were assigned to either one of the DMARD tapering arms or to continuation of DMARDs. RESULTS In patients remaining in remission but not in the ones who flared, IgA2 ACPA levels and proportion of IgA2 in ACPA (IgA2%ACPA) significantly declined (median of 17.5%; p< 0.0001). This seemed to be independent of the treatment choice, as there was no difference in IgA2 ACPA dynamics between the study arms. IgA2% ACPA was associated with disease activity (DAS28) at flare (r = 0.36; p= 0.046). IgA and IgG ACPA showed a tendency towards independent contribution to the risk of flare with the highest risk if a patient had both antibody classes. CONCLUSION In this study, IgA ACPA was identified as a risk factor for flare in combination with IgG ACPA. IgA2 ACPA levels were associated with flare severity and declined in patients in stable remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Sokolova
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Melanie Hagen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Juergen Rech
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Steffen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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18
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Karmakar U, Vermeren S. Crosstalk between B cells and neutrophils in rheumatoid arthritis. Immunology 2021; 164:689-700. [PMID: 34478165 PMCID: PMC8561113 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease without known cure that primarily affects synovial joints. RA has a prevalence of approximately 1% of the population worldwide. A vicious circle between two critical immune cell types, B cells and neutrophils, develops and promotes disease. Pathogenic anti‐citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) directed against a range of citrullinated epitopes are abundant in both plasma and synovial fluid of RA patients. In addition to stimulating numerous cell types, ACPA and other autoantibodies, notably rheumatoid factor, form immune complexes (ICs) that potently activate neutrophils. Attracted to the synovium by abundant chemokines, neutrophils are locally stimulated by ICs. They generate cytokines and release cytotoxic compounds including neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), strands of decondensed chromatin decorated with citrullinated histones and granule‐derived neutrophil proteins, which are particularly abundant in the synovial fluid. In this way, neutrophils generate citrullinated epitopes and release peptidylarginine deiminase (PAD) enzymes capable of citrullinating extracellular proteins in the rheumatic joint, contributing to renewed ACPA generation. This review article focusses on the central function of citrullination, a post‐translational modification of arginine residues in RA. The discussion includes ACPA and related autoantibodies, somatic hypermutation‐mediated escape from negative selection by autoreactive B cells, promotion of the dominance of citrullinated antigens by genetic and lifestyle susceptibility factors and the vicious circle between ACPA‐producing pathogenic B cells and NET‐producing neutrophils in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Utsa Karmakar
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sonja Vermeren
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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19
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He Z, Liu Z, Gong L. Biomarker identification and pathway analysis of rheumatoid arthritis based on metabolomics in combination with ingenuity pathway analysis. Proteomics 2021; 21:e2100037. [PMID: 33969925 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202100037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune and inflammatory disease worldwide, but understanding its pathogenesis is still limited. In this study, plasma untargeted metabolomics of a discovery cohort and targeted analysis of a verification cohort were performed by gas chromatograph mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Univariate and multivariate statistical analysis were utilized to reveal differential metabolites, followed by the construction of biomarker panel through random forest (RF) algorithm. The pathways involved in RA were enriched by differential metabolites using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) suite. Untargeted metabolomics revealed eighteen significantly altered metabolites in RA. Among these metabolites, a three-metabolite marker panel consisting of L-cysteine, citric acid and L-glutamine was constructed, using random forest algorithm that could predict RA with high accuracy, sensitivity and specificity based on a multivariate exploratory receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The panel was further validated by support vector machine (SVM) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) algorithms, and also verified with targeted metabolomics using a verification cohort. Additionally, the dysregulated taurine biosynthesis pathway in RA was revealed by an integrated analysis of metabolomics and transcriptomics. Our findings in this study not only provided a mechanism underlying RA pathogenesis, but also offered alternative therapeutic targets for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoru He
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, PR China
| | - Zhongqiu Liu
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, PR China
| | - Lingzhi Gong
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, PR China
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20
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van Leeuwen NM, Boonstra M, Bakker JA, Grummels A, Jordan S, Liem S, Distler O, Hoffmann-Vold AM, Melsens K, Smith V, Truchetet ME, Scherer HU, Toes R, Huizinga TWJ, de Vries-Bouwstra JK. Anti-centromere antibody levels and isotypes and the development of systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 73:2338-2347. [PMID: 34042326 PMCID: PMC9297867 DOI: 10.1002/art.41814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective Little is known on the disease course of very early systemic sclerosis (SSc). Among the information yet to be elucidated is whether anticentromere antibody (ACA) isotype levels can serve as biomarkers for future SSc development and for organ involvement. This study was undertaken to evaluate whether IgG, IgM, and IgA ACA levels in IgG ACA–positive patients are associated with disease severity and/or progression from very early SSc to definite SSc. Methods IgG ACA–positive patients from 5 different cohorts who had very early SSc or SSc fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) 2013 criteria were included. A diagnosis of very early SSc was based on the presence of IgG ACAs and Raynaud’s phenomenon, and/or puffy fingers and/or abnormal nailfold capillaroscopy, but not fulfilling the ACR/EULAR 2013 criteria for SSc. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to determine the association between baseline ACA isotype levels and progression to definite SSc with organ involvement. Results Six hundred twenty‐five IgG ACA–positive patients were included, of whom 138 (22%) fulfilled the criteria for very early SSc and 487 (78%) had definite SSc. Levels of IgG ACAs (odds ratio 2.5 [95% confidence interval 1.8–3.7]) and IgM ACAs (odds ratio 1.8 [95% confidence interval 1.3–2.3]) were significantly higher in patients with definite SSc. Of 115 patients with very early SSc with follow‐up, progression to definite SSc occurred within 5 years in 48 (42%). Progression to definite SSc was associated with higher IgG ACA levels at baseline (odds ratio 4.3 [95% confidence interval 1.7–10.7]). Conclusion ACA isotype levels may serve as biomarkers to identify patients with very early SSc who are at risk for disease progression to definite SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina M van Leeuwen
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Rheumatology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike Boonstra
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Rheumatology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap A Bakker
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Annette Grummels
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Suzana Jordan
- University Hospital Zurich, Department of Rheumatology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Liem
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Rheumatology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Oliver Distler
- University Hospital Zurich, Department of Rheumatology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anna-Maria Hoffmann-Vold
- Department of Rheumatology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway, Rikshospitalet, Pb 4950 Nydalen, 0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Karin Melsens
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital; Unit for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, VIB Inflammation Research Centre (IRC), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital; Unit for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, VIB Inflammation Research Centre (IRC), Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Hans U Scherer
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Rheumatology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - René Toes
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Rheumatology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tom W J Huizinga
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Rheumatology, Leiden, The Netherlands
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21
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Tymms K, Butcher B, Smith T, Littlejohn G. Impact of anti-citrullinated protein antibody on tumor necrosis factor inhibitor or abatacept response in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Eur J Rheumatol 2021; 8:67-72. [PMID: 32966190 PMCID: PMC8133894 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2020.20024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) serostatus on response to treatment with either tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) or abatacept in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS Data was obtained from the Optimizing Patient outcomes in Australian RheumatoLogy (OPAL) dataset. Patient data were included in the analysis if they commenced treatment with abatacept or TNFi between 01 August 2006 and 30 June 2017 and had at least 12 months' follow-up. The primary outcome was the mean change in the clinical disease activity index (CDAI) score from baseline to 12 months. RESULTS A total of 2,052 patients were included of which 1,415 were in the TNFi cohort (n=1,053 ACPA positive) and 637 in the abatacept cohort (n=445 ACPA positive). Patients were predominantly female (75% TNFi; 80% abatacept) with no significant difference in age between cohorts. Patients with ACPA positivity had longer disease duration before commencing treatment in both the TNFi and abatacept cohorts compared to ACPA negative patients. No difference in disease severity was observed in those with ACPA negativity compared to those with ACPA positivity. Patients treated with TNFi and abatacept had significantly improved mean change in CDAI after 12 months; ACPA positivity was associated with greater response to treatment with abatacept compared to that in patients with ACPA negativity (p=0.011). No difference in response was observed based on ACPA serostatus in patients treated with TNFi (p=0.73). CONCLUSION Baseline ACPA positivity was associated with improved clinical response using CDAI outcome measure at 12 months for abatacept but not for TNFi therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Tymms
- Canberra Rheumatology, Canberra City, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- OPAL Rheumatology Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Belinda Butcher
- WriteSource Medical Pty Ltd, Lane Cove, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tegan Smith
- OPAL Rheumatology Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoffrey Littlejohn
- OPAL Rheumatology Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Monash Rheumatology, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Biomarkers to Personalize the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Focus on Autoantibodies and Pharmacogenetics. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121672. [PMID: 33327600 PMCID: PMC7765045 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that is very complex and heterogeneous. If not adequately treated, RA patients are likely to manifest excess of morbidity and disability with an important impact on the quality of life. Pharmacological treatment is based on the administration of the disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), subdivided into conventional synthetic (csDMARDs), targeted synthetic (tsDMARDs), and biological (bDMARDs). bDMARDs are now frequently administered in patients, both as alternative treatment and together with csDMARDs. Unfortunately, there is a therapeutic response variability both to old and new drugs. Therefore, to identify pre-therapeutic and on-treatment predictors of response is a priority. This review aims to summarize recent advances in understanding the causes of the variability in treatment response in RA, with particular attention to predictive potential of autoantibodies and DMARD pharmacogenetics. In recent years, several biomarkers have been proposed to personalize the therapy. Unfortunately, a magic bullet does not exist, as many factors concur to disease susceptibility and treatment outcomes, acting around the patient’s congenital background. Models integrating demographic, clinical, biochemical, and genetic data are needed to enhance the predictive capacity of specific factors singularly considered to optimize RA treatment in light of multidisciplinary patient management.
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23
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Ota T, Ota SI, Uchino A, Nagano S. IgG anti-hinge antibodies against IgG4 F(ab') 2 fragments generated using pepsin are useful diagnostic markers for rheumatoid arthritis: implications of the possible roles of metalloproteinases and IgG subclasses in generating immunogenic hinge epitopes. Arthritis Res Ther 2020; 22:161. [PMID: 32586370 PMCID: PMC7318515 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-020-02251-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pepsin agglutinators, discovered over 50 years ago, have been recently referred to as anti-hinge antibodies (AHAs) because of their reaction with the IgG hinge epitope. AHAs have different reactivity for each hinge epitope generated by each protease that cleaves the hinge region at different sites. Moreover, AHAs have different reactivity against different hinge epitopes derived from each IgG subclass even when the same protease is used. Since the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) is enhanced in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), AHA production could also be increased. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the levels of AHAs against IgG hinge epitopes produced by MMP-3 are elevated in RA. Methods The serum levels of IgG or IgA AHAs against the IgG1/IgG4 F(ab’)2 fragments, generated by either MMP-3 or pepsin, were measured using ELISA in 111 patients with RA and 81 healthy controls (HC). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used for obtaining optimal cutoff values and cutoff values indicating high specificity (> 95%) of the AHA. The targeted epitope of a specific AHA was investigated through inhibition ELISA. Results Seven AHAs were statistically higher in RA patients than in HC, except IgG AHA against IgG1 F(ab’)2, which was generated by MMP-3 proteolytic cleavage. The areas under the ROC curve were 0.66–0.80, although the sensitivities at high specificity were low (5.4–24.3%). The cumulative number of positive AHAs in each individual was statistically higher in RA patients than in HC, suggesting the extreme extent of AHA repertoires in RA. Inhibition studies revealed that IgG AHAs against IgG4 F(ab’)2 fragments generated by pepsin cross-reacted with IgG1 F(ab’)2 fragments generated by pepsin. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the IgG AHA against IgG4 F(ab’)2 fragments generated by pepsin as an independent variable for RA diagnosis, even in RA patients who were negative for both RF and ACPA (odds ratio 1.18, 95% CI 1.06–1.32; P = 0.003). Additional experiments using non-RA patients finally strengthened the diagnostic utility. Conclusion In RA patients, we observed diversification and amplification of AHA repertoires and diagnostic utility of the specific AHA against IgG4 F(ab’)2 fragments generated by pepsin but not MMP-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Ota
- Center for Rheumatic Diseases, Iizuka Hospital, 3-83 Yoshio-machi, Iizuka-shi, Fukuoka, 820-8505, Japan. .,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Iizuka Hospital, 3-83 Yoshio-machi, Iizuka-shi, Fukuoka, 820-8505, Japan.
| | - Shun-Ichiro Ota
- Center for Rheumatic Diseases, Shimonoseki City Hospital, Shimonoseki-shi, Yamaguchi, 750-0041, Japan
| | - Ayumi Uchino
- Department of Internal Medicine (Rheumatic Diseases Division), Iizuka Hospital, 3-83 Yoshio-machi, Iizuka-shi, Fukuoka, 820-8505, Japan
| | - Shuji Nagano
- Department of Internal Medicine (Rheumatic Diseases Division), Iizuka Hospital, 3-83 Yoshio-machi, Iizuka-shi, Fukuoka, 820-8505, Japan
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24
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Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis is a heterogeneous disease, which can be, based on data combining genetic risk factors and autoantibodies, sub-classified into ACPA-positive and -negative RA. Presence of ACPA and RF as well as rising CRP-levels in some patients years before onset of clinical symptoms indicate that relevant immune responses for RA development are initiated very early. ACPA are highly specific for RA, whereas RF can also be found among healthy (elderly) individuals and patients with other autoimmune diseases or infection. The most important genetic risk factor for RA development, the shared epitope alleles, resides in the MHC class II region. Shared epitope alleles, however, only predispose to the development of ACPA-positive RA. Smoking is thus far the most important environmental risk factor associated with the development of RA. Studies on synovitis have shown the importance not only of adaptive but also of innate immune responses. In summary of the various results from immunological changes in blood and synovial tissue, the extension of the immune response from a diffuse myeloid to a lympho-myeloid inflammation appears to be associated with a more successful therapeutic response to biologics. With respect to advances in synovitis research, new targets for treatment against pathological subsets of immune cells or fibroblasts are already on the horizon. However, alternative strategies involving the microbiome may play an important role as well and research in this field is growing rapidly.
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25
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van Delft MAM, Huizinga TWJ. An overview of autoantibodies in rheumatoid arthritis. J Autoimmun 2020; 110:102392. [PMID: 31911013 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic auto-immune disease principally effecting synovial joints. RA is characterized by immune cell infiltration in the joint. The presence of autoantibodies is a hallmark for the disease, among these are rheumatoid factor and antibodies against post-translational modified proteins like citrullination (ACPA) and carbamylation (anti-CarP antibodies). These autoantibodies may form immune complexes in the joint, leading to the attraction of immune cells. Based on the presence of these autoantibodies, RA patients can be subdivided in autoantibody positive and negative disease. Both subsets can be associated with genetic and environmental risk factors for RA, like the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allele and smoking. Autoantibodies can already be detected years before disease onset in a subgroup of patients and at symptom onset a broad isotype spectrum is observed. This suggests that various events occur prior to the development of RA in which the first autoantibodies develop in predisposed individuals. Therefore, the presence of these autoantibodies can be useful in predicting future RA patients. Research on the characteristics and effector function of these autoantibodies is ongoing and will give more knowledge in the inflammatory responses underlying RA. This will give insight in the pathogenic role of autoantibodies in RA. Recent data are suggestive of a role for mucosal surfaces in the development of auto-immune responses associated with (the development of) RA. In conclusion, investigating the potential pathogenic effector functions of autoantibody isotypes and their molecular- and physicochemical-compositions might improve understanding of the disease origin and its underlying immunological processes. This may lead to the development of new therapeutic targets and strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrthe A M van Delft
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Tom W J Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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26
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Volkov M, van Schie KA, van der Woude D. Autoantibodies and B Cells: The ABC of rheumatoid arthritis pathophysiology. Immunol Rev 2019; 294:148-163. [PMID: 31845355 PMCID: PMC7065213 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation. In the last few decades, new insights into RA‐specific autoantibodies and B cells have greatly expanded our understanding of the disease. The best‐known autoantibodies in RA—rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti‐citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA)—are present long before disease onset, and both responses show signs of maturation around the time of the first manifestation of arthritis. A very intriguing characteristic of ACPA is their remarkably high abundance of variable domain glycans. Since these glycans may convey an important selection advantage of citrulline‐reactive B cells, they may be the key to understanding the evolution of the autoimmune response. Recently discovered autoantibodies targeting other posttranslational modifications, such as anti‐carbamylated and anti‐acetylated protein antibodies, appear to be closely related to ACPA, which makes it possible to unite them under the term of anti‐modified protein antibodies (AMPA). Despite the many insights gained about these autoantibodies, it is unclear whether they are pathogenic or play a causal role in disease development. Autoreactive B cells from which the autoantibodies originate have also received attention as perhaps more likely disease culprits. The development of autoreactive B cells in RA largely depends on the interaction with T cells in which HLA “shared epitope” and HLA DERAA may play an important role. Recent technological advances made it possible to identify and characterize citrulline‐reactive B cells and acquire ACPA monoclonal antibodies, which are providing valuable insights and help to understand the nature of the autoimmune response underlying RA. In this review, we summarize what is currently known about the role of autoantibodies and autoreactive B cells in RA and we discuss the most prominent hypotheses aiming to explain the origins and the evolution of autoimmunity in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Volkov
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Karin Anna van Schie
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Diane van der Woude
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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27
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Vergroesen RD, Slot LM, van Schaik BDC, Koning MT, Rispens T, van Kampen AHC, Toes REM, Scherer HU. N-Glycosylation Site Analysis of Citrullinated Antigen-Specific B-Cell Receptors Indicates Alternative Selection Pathways During Autoreactive B-Cell Development. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2092. [PMID: 31572358 PMCID: PMC6749139 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many autoimmune diseases are hallmarked by autoreactive B and plasma cell responses that are directly or indirectly involved in disease pathogenesis. These B-cell responses show large variability between diseases, both in terms of the secreted autoantibody repertoire and the dynamics and characteristics of the underlying B-cell responses. Hence, different mechanisms have been proposed to explain the emergence of autoreactive B cells in an otherwise self-tolerant immune system. Notably, most mechanistic insights have been obtained from murine studies using models harboring genetic modifications of B and T cells. Given recent technological advances that have rendered autoreactive human B cells accessible for analysis, we here discuss the phenomenon of extensive N-glycosylation of the B-cell receptor (BCR) variable domain of a prototypic human autoreactive B-cell response and its potential role in the generation of autoimmunity. Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) hallmark the most disease-specific autoimmune response in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Remarkably, ACPA-IgG are heavily N-glycosylated in the variable domain due to somatic mutations that generate abundant N-glycosylation consensus sequences. These sites, obtained from full-length BCR sequences of ACPA-expressing B cells from 12 ACPA-positive RA patients, were here analyzed in detail. Sites that required a single nucleotide mutation to be generated were defined as single somatic hypermutation (s-SHM) sites, whereas sites requiring multiple mutations were defined as m-SHM sites. IgG sequences of 12 healthy donors were used as control. Computational modeling of the germinal center reaction (CLONE algorithm) was used with the germline counterparts of ACPA-IgG heavy chain (HC) sequences to simulate the germinal center response. Our analyses revealed an abundance of N-glycosylation sites in ACPA-IgG HC that frequently required multiple mutations and predominated in specific positions. Based on these data, and taking into account recent insights into the dynamics of the ACPA-response during disease development, we here discuss the hypothesis that N-glycosylation sites in ACPA-IgG variable domains could lead to alternative, possibly antibody affinity-independent selection forces. Presumably, this occurs during germinal center responses allowing these B cells to escape from putative tolerance checkpoints, thereby driving autoreactive B cell development in the pathogenesis of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Linda M Slot
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Barbera D C van Schaik
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marvyn T Koning
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Theo Rispens
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Antoine H C van Kampen
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Biosystems Data Analysis, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - René E M Toes
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Hans U Scherer
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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Boeters DM, Burgers LE, Toes RE, van der Helm-van Mil A. Does immunological remission, defined as disappearance of autoantibodies, occur with current treatment strategies? A long-term follow-up study in rheumatoid arthritis patients who achieved sustained DMARD-free status. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 78:1497-1504. [PMID: 31413004 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2018-214868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sustained disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)-free status, the sustained absence of synovitis after cessation of DMARD therapy, is infrequent in autoantibody-positive rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but approximates cure (ie, disappearance of signs and symptoms). It was recently suggested that immunological remission, defined as disappearance of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) and rheumatoid factor (RF), underlies this outcome. Therefore, this long-term observational study determined if autoantibodies disappear in RA patients who achieved sustained DMARD-free remission. METHODS We studied 95 ACPA-positive and/or RF-positive RA patients who achieved DMARD-free remission after median 4.8 years and kept this status for the remaining follow-up (median 4.2 years). Additionally, 21 autoantibody-positive RA patients with a late flare, defined as recurrence of clinical synovitis after a DMARD-free status of ≥1 year, and 45 autoantibody-positive RA patients who were unable to stop DMARD therapy (during median 10 years) were studied. Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide 2 (anti-CCP2) IgG, IgM and RF IgM levels were measured in 587 samples obtained at diagnosis, before and after achieving DMARD-free remission. RESULTS 13% of anti-CCP2 IgG-positive RA patients had seroreverted when achieving remission. In RA patients with a flare and persistent disease this was 8% and 6%, respectively (p=0.63). For anti-CCP2 IgM and RF IgM, similar results were observed. Evaluating the estimated slope of serially measured levels revealed that RF levels decreased more in patients with than without remission (p<0.001); the course of anti-CCP2 levels was not different (p=0.66). CONCLUSIONS Sustained DMARD-free status in autoantibody-positive RA was not paralleled by an increased frequency of reversion to autoantibody negativity. This form of immunological remission may therefore not be a treatment target in patients with classified RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie M Boeters
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Leonie E Burgers
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - René Em Toes
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Annette van der Helm-van Mil
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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29
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Deane KD, Holers VM. The Natural History of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Clin Ther 2019; 41:1256-1269. [PMID: 31196652 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2019.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This article reviews the phases of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) development in terms of the evolution of disease, with a focus on events that occur before the first appearance of clinically apparent inflammatory arthritis. This presynovitis period is defined in individuals who eventually develop classified RA as the pre-RA phase. We include additional discussion of the relevance of this model of RA development to the concept of disease prevention. METHODS The information provided in this review was identified through searches of the medical literature through MEDLINE and a review of references from published manuscripts as well as information obtained by the authors through attendance at various conferences and working groups related to pre-RA. FINDINGS It is now well established that RA develops in a series of phases. The first of these phases is believed to be the presence of genetic and/or environmental risk factors for RA in the absence of detectable systemic autoimmunity in the blood. After this phase, autoimmunity may be detectable through a variety of means (eg, autoantibodies, autoreactive cells) in peripheral blood; in addition, there is emerging evidence that perhaps initiation and early propagation of RA-related autoimmunity may occur at mucosal sites. The presence of autoimmunity detectable in the blood through serologic or other testing is followed in most individuals by a propagation phase that is characterized by an expansion of autoimmunity, inflammation, and symptoms. This transition may be associated with similar or different genetic and environmental factors that initially triggered autoimmunity, as well as continued mucosal inflammation and local RA-related autoantibody production. Eventually, clinically detectable inflammatory arthritis develops that can be classified as RA. IMPLICATIONS Understanding the phases of RA development are critical to the development of preventive strategies for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D Deane
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - V Michael Holers
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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30
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Use of a Citrullinated Peptide Panel for Detection of Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibodies by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1901:243-253. [PMID: 30539584 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8949-2_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA)s are a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are essential for serological diagnosis of RA.ACPAs are not specific for a single citrullinated target; in fact, several citrullinated ACPA target proteins have been described. As a consequence, ACPAs are primarily detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, where several citrullinated peptides are used as target antigens.This chapter focuses on the detection of ACPAs using a recently developed peptide panel in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.
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Kampstra ASB, Dekkers JS, Volkov M, Dorjée AL, Hafkenscheid L, Kempers AC, van Delft M, Kissel T, Reijm S, Janssen GMC, van Veelen PA, Bang H, Huizinga TWJ, Trouw LA, van der Woude D, Toes REM. Different classes of anti-modified protein antibodies are induced on exposure to antigens expressing only one type of modification. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 78:908-916. [PMID: 31151934 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2018-214950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Autoantibodies against post-translationally modified proteins (anti-modified protein antibodies or AMPAs) are a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A variety of classes of AMPAs against different modifications on proteins, such as citrullination, carbamylation and acetylation, have now been described in RA. At present, there is no conceptual framework explaining the concurrent presence or mutual relationship of different AMPA responses in RA. Here, we aimed to gain understanding of the co-occurrence of AMPA by postulating that the AMPA response shares a common 'background' that can evolve into different classes of AMPAs. METHODS Mice were immunised with modified antigens and analysed for AMPA responses. In addition, reactivity of AMPA purified from patients with RA towards differently modified antigens was determined. RESULTS Immunisation with carbamylated proteins induced AMPAs recognising carbamylated proteins and also acetylated proteins. Similarly, acetylated proteins generated (autoreactive) AMPAs against other modifications as well. Analysis of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies from patients with RA revealed that these also display reactivity to acetylated and carbamylated antigens. Similarly, anti-carbamylated protein antibodies showed cross-reactivity against all three post-translational modifications. CONCLUSIONS Different AMPA responses can emerge from exposure to only a single type of modified protein. These findings indicate that different AMPA responses can originate from a common B-cell response that diversifies into multiple distinct AMPA responses and explain the presence of multiple AMPAs in RA, one of the hallmarks of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mikhail Volkov
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie L Dorjée
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lise Hafkenscheid
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ayla C Kempers
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Myrthe van Delft
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Theresa Kissel
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Reijm
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - George M C Janssen
- Center of Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter A van Veelen
- Center of Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Holger Bang
- Research and development, Orgentec Diagnostika, Mainz, Germany
| | - Tom W J Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert A Trouw
- Department of Immunohematology and Bloodtransfusion, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Diane van der Woude
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - René E M Toes
- Department of Rheumatology, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Fortea-Gordo P, Nuño L, Villalba A, Peiteado D, Monjo I, Sánchez-Mateos P, Puig-Kröger A, Balsa A, Miranda-Carús ME. Two populations of circulating PD-1hiCD4 T cells with distinct B cell helping capacity are elevated in early rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2019; 58:1662-1673. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
A novel population of B helper cells, phenotypically CD4+CXCR5−PD-1hi, has been described in the synovial tissues and peripheral blood of seropositive RA patients, and termed ‘peripheral helper T’ (Tph) cells. Contrary to CD4+CXCR5+PD-1hi follicular helper T (Tfh), Tph cells are not located in lymphoid organs but accumulate in inflamed tissues. Our objective was to study the frequency of circulating Tph (cTph) and circulating Tfh cell counterparts (cTfh) in patients with early RA (eRA).
Methods
Freshly isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 56 DMARD-naïve eRA patients and 56 healthy controls were examined by flow cytometry. Autologous cocultures of naïve or memory B cells were established with isolated peripheral blood Tph or Tfh cells.
Results
Seropositive (RF+ and/or ACPA+, n = 38) but not seronegative eRA patients (n = 18) demonstrated increased frequencies and absolute numbers of cTph and cTfh cells. cTph but not cTfh cells expressed CCR2. Those eRA patients who experienced a significant clinical improvement at 12 months demonstrated a marked decrease of their cTph cell numbers whereas their cTfh cell numbers remained unchanged. Both isolated Tph and isolated Tfh cells were able to induce maturation of memory B cells, whereas only Tfh cells could differentiate naïve B cells.
Conclusion
Two populations of PD-1hiCD4 T cells with distinct phenotype and B cell helping capacity are increased in the peripheral blood of seropositive eRA patients. Whereas cTph cells are present only in patients with an active disease, cTfh cells seem to be constitutively elevated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Nuño
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPaz
| | | | - Diana Peiteado
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPaz
| | - Irene Monjo
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPaz
| | - Paloma Sánchez-Mateos
- Laboratorio de Inmuno-Oncología, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Amaya Puig-Kröger
- Laboratorio de Inmuno-Oncología, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Balsa
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPaz
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Kastbom A, Roos Ljungberg K, Ziegelasch M, Wetterö J, Skogh T, Martinsson K. Changes in anti-citrullinated protein antibody isotype levels in relation to disease activity and response to treatment in early rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Exp Immunol 2018; 194:391-399. [PMID: 30136282 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease where serum analysis of anti-citrullinated peptide/protein antibodies (ACPA) is an important diagnostic/prognostic tool. Levels and changes of ACPA in RA patients have been studied previously in relation to disease course and therapy response, but less is known regarding ACPA isotype changes in early RA. Hence, recent-onset RA patients (n = 231) were subjected to a 3-year clinical and radiological follow-up. Serum samples were serially collected and ACPA isotypes were analysed using the second-generation cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) as capture antigen. Changes in ACPA isotype levels and status were related to disease course and pharmacotherapy. At inclusion, 74% of the patients tested positive for ACPA IgG; 55% for immunoglobulin (Ig)A, 37% for secretory IgA (SIgA) and 35% for IgM. The proportion of positive patients decreased significantly at follow-up regarding ACPA SIgA, IgM and IgA. During the initial 3 months, reduction of the 28-joint disease activity score (DAS28) correlated with reduced levels of ACPA IgG (Rho = 0·242, P = 0·003), IgA (Rho = 0·260, P = 0·008), IgM (Rho = 0·457, P < 0·001) and SIgA (Rho = 0·402, P < 0·001). Levels of ACPA SIgA (P = 0·008) and IgM (P = 0·021) decreased significantly among patients with good response to treatment, which was not seen regarding ACPA IgA or IgG. Changes in ACPA isotype levels were not associated with radiographic damage. In conclusion, ACPA SIgA and IgM declined rapidly upon anti-rheumatic therapy and correlated with decreased disease activity in recent-onset RA. This may indicate that down-regulation of mucosal immunity to citrullinated proteins/peptides and recruitment of new B cells are key features of therapy responses in early RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kastbom
- Division of Neuro and Inflammation Sciences, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - K Roos Ljungberg
- Division of Neuro and Inflammation Sciences, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - M Ziegelasch
- Division of Neuro and Inflammation Sciences, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - J Wetterö
- Division of Neuro and Inflammation Sciences, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - T Skogh
- Division of Neuro and Inflammation Sciences, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - K Martinsson
- Division of Neuro and Inflammation Sciences, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Kraal LJN, Nijland ML, Germar KL, Baeten DLP, ten Berge IJM, Fehres CM. Anti-citrullinated protein antibody response after primary EBV infection in kidney transplant patients. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0197219. [PMID: 29746558 PMCID: PMC5945038 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0197219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease of synovial joints, characterized by the presence of the highly disease-specific anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) in approximately 70% of patients. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has previously been suggested to be involved in the pathophysiology of RA. However, given the high incidence of EBV in the general population and the difficulty of detecting initial infection, providing a direct link between EBV infection and RA development has remained elusive. We hypothesized that primary EBV infection may be a trigger for the development of the ACPA response in vivo. Using a unique cohort of 26 kidney transplant patients with a primary EBV infection, the presence of ACPA before and following infection was determined. No increase in IgG anti-CCP2 titers was detected following EBV infection. IgG anti-CCP2 antibodies were present in two patients and borderline positive in another. These three patients were HLA-DR4 negative. To test whether EBV infection may trigger a non-class switched anti-CCP2 response, IgM anti-CCP2 antibodies were analyzed. No general trend in the IgM anti-CCP2 response was observed following EBV infection. Since two out of the three IgG anti-CCP2 (borderline) positive patients were diagnosed with IgA nephropathy, 23 additional IgA nephropathy patients were tested for IgG anti-CCP2, regardless of their EBV status. All of these patients were IgG anti-CCP2 negative, indicating that IgG anti-CCP2 is not commonly present in IgA nephropathy patients. Collectively, these data do not support the hypothesis that EBV does trigger the highly RA specific ACPA response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianne J. N. Kraal
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Academic Medical Center/ University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke L. Nijland
- Renal Transplant Unit, Department of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kristine L. Germar
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Academic Medical Center/ University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dominique L. P. Baeten
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Academic Medical Center/ University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ineke J. M. ten Berge
- Renal Transplant Unit, Department of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cynthia M. Fehres
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Academic Medical Center/ University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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Trier NH, Holm BE, Heiden J, Slot O, Locht H, Jensen B, Lindegaard H, Svendsen A, Nielsen CT, Jacobsen S, Theander E, Houen G. The use of synthetic peptides for detection of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies in rheumatoid arthritis. J Immunol Methods 2018; 454:6-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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36
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Trier NH, Holm BE, Heiden J, Slot O, Locht H, Lindegaard H, Svendsen A, Nielsen CT, Jacobsen S, Theander E, Houen G. Antibodies to a strain-specific citrullinated Epstein-Barr virus peptide diagnoses rheumatoid arthritis. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3684. [PMID: 29487382 PMCID: PMC5829227 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22058-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease. Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) are crucial for the serological diagnosis of RA, where Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been suggested to be an environmental agent in triggering the onset of the disease. This study aimed to analyse antibody reactivity to citrullinated EBV nuclear antigen-2 (EBNA-2) peptides from three different EBV strains (B95-8, GD1 and AG876) using streptavidin capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. One peptide, only found in a single strain (AG876), obtained a sensitivity and specificity of 77% and 95%, respectively and showed high sequence similarity to the filaggrin peptide originally used for ACPA detection. Comparison of antibody reactivity to commercial assays found that the citrullinated peptide was as effective in detecting ACPA as highly sensitive and specific commercial assays. The data presented demonstrate that the citrullinated EBNA-2 peptide indeed is recognised specifically by RA sera and that the single peptide is able to compete with assays containing multiple peptides. Furthermore, it could be hypothesized that RA may be caused by (a) specific strain(s) of EBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Hartwig Trier
- Department of Autoimmunology and Biomarkers, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.
| | - Bettina Eide Holm
- Department of Autoimmunology and Biomarkers, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Julie Heiden
- Department of Autoimmunology and Biomarkers, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Ole Slot
- Department of Rheumatology, Glostrup Hospital, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Henning Locht
- Department of Rheumatology, Frederiksberg Hospital, Nordre Fasanvej 57, 2000, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Hanne Lindegaard
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Søndre Boulevard 29, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Anders Svendsen
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bio-demography, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Christoffer Tandrup Nielsen
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Jacobsen
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elke Theander
- Department of Rheumatology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund University, 20502, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Houen
- Department of Autoimmunology and Biomarkers, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.
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de Moel EC, Derksen VFAM, Stoeken G, Trouw LA, Bang H, Goekoop RJ, Speyer I, Huizinga TWJ, Allaart CF, Toes REM, van der Woude D. Baseline autoantibody profile in rheumatoid arthritis is associated with early treatment response but not long-term outcomes. Arthritis Res Ther 2018; 20:33. [PMID: 29482627 PMCID: PMC5828136 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-018-1520-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The autoantibody profile of seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is very diverse and consists of various isotypes and antibodies to multiple post-translational modifications. It is yet unknown whether this varying breadth of the autoantibody profile is associated with treatment outcomes. Therefore, we investigated whether the composition of the autoantibody profile in RA, as a marker of the underlying immunopathology, influences initial and long-term treatment outcomes. Methods In serum from 399 seropositive patients with RA in the IMPROVED study, drawn at baseline and at the moment of drug tapering, we measured IgG, IgM, and IgA isotypes for anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide-2 and anti‐carbamylated protein antibodies, IgM and IgA rheumatoid factor, and reactivity against four citrullinated and two acetylated peptides (anti-modified protein antibodies (AMPAs)). We investigated the effect of the breadth of the autoantibody profile on (1) change in disease activity score (DAS)44 between 0 and 4 months, (2) initial drug-free remission (DFR, drug-free DAS44 < 1.6) achieved between 1 and 2 years of follow up, and (3) long-term sustained DFR until last follow up. Results Patients with a broad autoantibody profile at baseline had a significantly better early treatment response: ΔDAS 0–4 months of 1–2, 3–4, and 5–6 vs 7–8 isotypes, -1.5 (p < 0.001), -1.7 (p = 0.03), and -1.8 (p = 0.04) vs -2.2. Similar results were observed for AMPA number. However, patients with a broad baseline autoantibody profile achieved less initial DFR. For long-term sustained DFR there was no longer an association with the breadth of the autoantibody response. When assessing autoantibodies at the moment of tapering, similar trends were observed. Conclusions A broad baseline autoantibody profile is associated with a better early treatment response. The breadth of the baseline autoantibody profile, reflecting a break in tolerance against several different autoantigens and extensive isotype switching, may indicate a more active humoral autoimmunity, which could make the underlying disease processes initially more suppressible by medication. The lack of association with long-term sustained DFR suggests that the relevance of the baseline autoantibody profile diminishes over time. Trial registration ISRCTN11916566. Registered on 7 November 2006. EudraCT, 2006- 06186-16. Registered on 16 July 2007. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13075-018-1520-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma C de Moel
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Gerrie Stoeken
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Irene Speyer
- Haaglanden Medical Center, the Hague, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - René E M Toes
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Scherer HU, Huizinga TWJ, Krönke G, Schett G, Toes REM. The B cell response to citrullinated antigens in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2018; 14:157-169. [DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum.2018.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Huijbers MG, Plomp JJ, van der Maarel SM, Verschuuren JJ. IgG4-mediated autoimmune diseases: a niche of antibody-mediated disorders. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1413:92-103. [PMID: 29377160 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Immunoglobulin 4 (IgG4) is one of four human IgG subclasses and has several unique functional characteristics. It exhibits low affinity for complement and for most Fc receptors. It furthermore has generally high affinity for its antigen, with binding occurring in a monovalent fashion, as IgG4 can exchange Fab-arms with other IgG4 molecules. Because of these characteristics, IgG4 is believed to block its targets and prevent inflammation, which, depending on the setting, can have a protective or pathogenic effect. One example of IgG4 pathogenicity is muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) myasthenia gravis (MG), in which patients develop IgG4 MuSK autoantibodies, resulting in muscle weakness. As a consequence of the distinct IgG4 characteristics, the pathomechanism of MuSK MG is very different from IgG1-and IgG3-mediated autoimmune diseases, such as acetylcholine receptor MG. In recent years, new autoantibodies in a spectrum of autoimmune diseases have been discovered. Interestingly, some were found to be predominantly IgG4. These IgG4-mediated autoimmune diseases share many pathomechanistic aspects with MuSK MG, suggesting that IgG4-mediated autoimmunity forms a separate niche among the antibody-mediated disorders. In this review, we summarize the group of IgG4-mediated autoimmune diseases, discuss the role of IgG4 in MuSK MG, and highlight interesting future research questions for IgG4-mediated autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maartje G Huijbers
- Departments of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap J Plomp
- Departments of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jan J Verschuuren
- Departments of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Dendrou CA, Petersen J, Rossjohn J, Fugger L. HLA variation and disease. Nat Rev Immunol 2018; 18:325-339. [PMID: 29292391 DOI: 10.1038/nri.2017.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 438] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fifty years since the first description of an association between HLA and human disease, HLA molecules have proven to be central to physiology, protective immunity and deleterious, disease-causing autoimmune reactivity. Technological advances have enabled pivotal progress in the determination of the molecular mechanisms that underpin the association between HLA genetics and functional outcome. Here, we review our current understanding of HLA molecules as the fundamental platform for immune surveillance and responsiveness in health and disease. We evaluate the scope for personalized antigen-specific disease prevention, whereby harnessing HLA-ligand interactions for clinical benefit is becoming a realistic prospect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calliope A Dendrou
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, The Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Jan Petersen
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.,Infection and Immunity Programme and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jamie Rossjohn
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.,Infection and Immunity Programme and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.,Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Lars Fugger
- Danish National Research Foundation Centre PERSIMUNE, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark.,Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Clinical Neurology and Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
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The role of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Cent Eur J Immunol 2017; 42:390-398. [PMID: 29472818 PMCID: PMC5820977 DOI: 10.5114/ceji.2017.72807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The most specific autoimmunity known for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is reflected by generation of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA). Presence of ACPA in established RA is associated with disease severity, while generation of ACPA at early developmental phases of RA can have a strong predictive value for progressing to the full-blown disease. Hence, development of ACPA may be of crucial importance to the pathogenesis of RA. Therefore, a lot of effort has been put recently to investigate the feature of ACPA at early developmental stages of RA (before disease onset) and functional activities of these autoantibodies. Results of these studies enlarged the knowledge about the nature of ACPA, which is essential for planning the therapeutic or preventive strategies interfering with their development and pathogenic functions. In this review we describe recent evidence for a role of ACPA in the etiopathogenesis of RA and indicate key unresolved issues regarding ACPA biology that need to be clarified in the future.
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Is ACPA positivity the main driver for rheumatoid arthritis treatment? Pros and cons. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:1096-1102. [PMID: 28899798 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune chronic disease that is characterized by the positivity of various antibodies, the most specific being autoantibodies against citrullinated antigens (ACPA). Despite ACPA are not arthritogenic by themselves, ACPA positive individuals have high risk of RA development and ACPA positivity is associated with severe erosive phenotype and higher mortality rate compared to seronegative RA. Moreover, ACPA status is associated with favorable response to biologics targeting pathways involving autoantibody producing cells as B lymphocytes. In the current review we have discussed the pros and cons on the available scientific evidences, regarding the diagnostic, prognostic and management implications of ACPAs in RA.
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van Delft MAM, Verheul MK, Burgers LE, Derksen VFAM, van der Helm-van Mil AHM, van der Woude D, Huizinga TWJ, Toes REM, Trouw LA. The isotype and IgG subclass distribution of anti-carbamylated protein antibodies in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Arthritis Res Ther 2017; 19:190. [PMID: 28810902 PMCID: PMC5558706 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-017-1392-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-carbamylated protein (anti-CarP) antibodies have recently been reported to occur in around 45% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and to have prognostic and diagnostic properties. At present, the breadth and molecular make-up of the anti-CarP antibody response is ill defined. To understand the anti-CarP antibody immune response and potential immune effector mechanisms it can recruit, we determined the anti-CarP antibody isotype and IgG-subclass usage in RA patients. METHODS Anti-CarP antibody IgM, IgA, and IgG or IgG subclasses were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in sera from 373 unselected RA patients and 196 healthy controls. An additional 114 anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) and anti-CarP IgG double-positive patients were selected to study the concomitant presence of both antibody systems. RESULTS Anti-CarP IgG was present in around 45% of the patients and comprised all anti-CarP IgG subclasses. The presence of anti-CarP IgG1 particularly associates with radiological damage. Anti-CarP IgM was detected in 16% of RA patients, even in anti-CarP IgG-positive individuals, and is indicative of an actively ongoing immune response. Around 45% of the patients were positive for IgA which included ACPA-positive cases but also 24% of the ACPA-negative cases. In ACPA and anti-CarP double-positive patients, the distribution and number of isotypes and IgG subclasses was similar for both autoantibodies at the group level, but substantial variation was observed within individual patient samples. CONCLUSIONS In RA, the anti-CarP antibody response uses a broad spectrum of isotypes and seems to be an actively ongoing immune reaction. Furthermore, the anti-CarP and ACPA autoantibody responses seems to be differentially regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrthe A M van Delft
- Department of Rheumatology, C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marije K Verheul
- Department of Rheumatology, C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Leonie E Burgers
- Department of Rheumatology, C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Veerle F A M Derksen
- Department of Rheumatology, C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Diane van der Woude
- Department of Rheumatology, C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tom W J Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology, C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - René E M Toes
- Department of Rheumatology, C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert A Trouw
- Department of Rheumatology, C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Kampstra ASB, Toes REM. HLA class II and rheumatoid arthritis: the bumpy road of revelation. Immunogenetics 2017; 69:597-603. [PMID: 28695293 PMCID: PMC5537318 DOI: 10.1007/s00251-017-0987-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic auto-immune disease primarily targeting the joints. Approximately 1% of the population is affected by RA, and despite the improvements in therapeutic interventions, elucidation of the disease pathogenesis is still in its infancy. RA patients can be subdivided on basis of the presence of autoantibodies, especially anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA). ACPA+ and ACPA- disease most likely differ in aetiology, as different genetic and environmental risk factors are associated with these two disease entities. For ACPA+ RA disease, the genetic factors associating with disease mainly comprised of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II molecules. The predisposing HLA-DR alleles have been depicted as the 'HLA Shared Epitope (SE) alleles', as these alleles encode a similar sequence, the shared epitope sequence, within the beta chain of the HLA-DR molecule. In addition to the involvement of the HLA-SE alleles in the development of ACPA+ RA disease, other HLA-DR molecules have been shown to confer protection against this disease entity. The protective HLA molecules have, instead of the SE-motif, a different but shared sequence at the same location in the beta chain of HLA-DR molecules, consisting of the amino acid residues DERAA. The possible contributions of the predisposing and protective HLA molecules in association with ACPA-positive RA are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arieke S B Kampstra
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - René E M Toes
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Cabrera-Villalba S, Gomara MJ, Cañete JD, Ramírez J, Salvador G, Ruiz-Esquide V, Hernández MV, Inciarte-Mundo J, Haro I, Sanmartí R. Differing specificities and isotypes of anti-citrullinated peptide/protein antibodies in palindromic rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Res Ther 2017; 19:141. [PMID: 28619044 PMCID: PMC5472877 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-017-1329-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To analyze differences in the recognition of anti-citrullinated peptide/protein antibody (ACPA) citrullinated epitopes and isotypes in patients with palindromic rheumatism (PR) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods ACPA fine specificities (citrullinated peptides of enolase, fibrin, and vimentin) and isotypes (IgG, IgM, and IgA) were analyzed in 54 patients with longstanding PR and 54 patients with established RA. Results CCP2 tested positive in 66.7% of patients with PR and RA. The ACPA distribution of fine specificities and isotypes differed between PR and RA patients. PR patients had a lower frequency of fine ACPA specificities than RA patients, which was significant in the case of a peptide derived from vimentin (PR 24.1% vs. 59.3% RA; p < 0.001). The mean number of ACPA specificities was lower in PR than in RA patients, and only 25.9% of PR patients recognized ≥2 additional specificities compared with 46.3% of RA patients. Significantly less isotype usage, especially IgA, was observed in PR patients. Conclusion The ACPA immune response differed in patients with PR and RA, with fewer fine specificities and isotype usage in patients with PR. Some patients with PR may have impaired maturation of the B-cell response against citrullinated peptides with no progression to RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Cabrera-Villalba
- Unidad de Artritis, Servicio de Reumatología Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María José Gomara
- Unidad de Síntesis y Aplicaciones Biomédicas de Péptidos, IQAC-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan D Cañete
- Unidad de Artritis, Servicio de Reumatología Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julio Ramírez
- Unidad de Artritis, Servicio de Reumatología Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Virginia Ruiz-Esquide
- Unidad de Artritis, Servicio de Reumatología Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Victoria Hernández
- Unidad de Artritis, Servicio de Reumatología Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Inciarte-Mundo
- Unidad de Artritis, Servicio de Reumatología Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Haro
- Unidad de Síntesis y Aplicaciones Biomédicas de Péptidos, IQAC-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raimon Sanmartí
- Unidad de Artritis, Servicio de Reumatología Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.
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Peckham H, Cambridge G, Bourke L, Sen D, Radziszewska A, Leandro M, Ioannou Y. Antibodies to Cyclic Citrullinated Peptides in Patients With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: Shared Expression of the Inherently Autoreactive 9G4 Idiotype. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 69:1387-1395. [PMID: 28380667 DOI: 10.1002/art.40117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptides (anti-CCP) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can express the inherently autoreactive gene VH 4-34, detected using the rat monoclonal antibody 9G4. Patients with the polyarticular subtype of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) share some but not all of the features of adult patients with RA. This study was undertaken to compare serologic findings for rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP, and 9G4-expressing anti-CCP in a large JIA cohort with a cohort of adult RA patients. METHODS Serum from 88 patients with polyarticular JIA, 29 patients with enthesitis-related arthritis, 38 patients with extended oligoarthritis, 31 adolescent controls, 35 patients with RA, and 30 adult controls were tested for RF, for IgG, IgA, and IgM anti-CCP, and for 9G4-expressing anti-CCP by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Total serum 9G4-positive IgM was also measured. RESULTS Of 65 patients with RF-negative polyarticular JIA, 4 (6.2%) were IgG anti-CCP positive. Sera from 20 of 23 patients with RF-positive polyarticular JIA (87.0%), 24 of 35 patients with RA (68.6%), and 1 patient with extended oligoarthritis contained IgG anti-CCP. IgA and IgM anti-CCP levels were lower in the adolescent group (P < 0.01). Levels of 9G4-expressing anti-CCP were higher in patients with RF-positive polyarticular JIA than in those with RF-negative polyarticular JIA (P < 0.0001). Median levels of 9G4-expressing anti-CCP in patients with RF-positive polyarticular JIA and those with RA did not differ. Expression of 9G4 on serum total IgM was greater in patients with RF-positive polyarticular JIA than other adolescent groups (P < 0.01), but similar to adult RF-positive RA. CONCLUSION In healthy individuals, 9G4-positive B cells comprise 5-10% of the peripheral blood pool but serum immunoglobulins utilizing VH 4-34 are disproportionately low. The idiotope recognized by 9G4 was detected on anti-CCP antibodies in >80% of patients with RF-positive polyarticular JIA. VH 4-34 usage by anti-CCP in both JIA and RA patients suggest elicitation of these autoantibodies through shared pathogenic B cell selection processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Peckham
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Lauren Bourke
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Debajit Sen
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anna Radziszewska
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Yiannis Ioannou
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology, University College London, London, UK
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47
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Boeters DM, Mangnus L, Ajeganova S, Lindqvist E, Svensson B, Toes REM, Trouw LA, Huizinga TWJ, Berenbaum F, Morel J, Rantapää-Dahlqvist S, van der Helm-van Mil AHM. The prevalence of ACPA is lower in rheumatoid arthritis patients with an older age of onset but the composition of the ACPA response appears identical. Arthritis Res Ther 2017; 19:115. [PMID: 28569212 PMCID: PMC5452396 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-017-1324-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) consists of two syndromes, one autoantibody-positive and one autoantibody-negative. Existing data on the relation between age of onset and prevalence of autoantibodies were conflicting. Therefore this multicohort study assessed the age of onset in relation to the presence of autoantibodies. The association with characteristics of the anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) response was also explored. METHODS The 1987 criteria-positive RA patients included in the Leiden EAC, BARFOT, ESPOIR, Umeå and Lund cohorts (n = 3321) were studied at presentation for age of onset and the presence of ACPA, rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-carbamylated protein (anti-CarP) antibodies. Logistic regression analyses were performed; effect sizes were summarized in inverse-weighted meta-analyses. Within ACPA-positive RA, ACPA level was studied in all cohorts; ACPA isotypes, ACPA fine specificity and ACPA avidity index and clinical characteristics were studied in the Leiden EAC. RESULTS From the age of 50 onward, the proportion of ACPA-negative RA patients increased with age in the five cohorts. Similar observations were made for RF and anti-CarP. The composition of the ACPA response did not change with increasing age of onset with respect to titer, isotype distribution, fine specificity and avidity index. With increasing age of onset, RA patients smoked less often, had higher acute phase reactants and more often had a sub(acute) symptom onset. CONCLUSIONS Data of five cohorts revealed that with older age of onset ACPA-negative RA is more frequent than ACPA-positive RA, while characteristics of ACPA-positive RA as judged by the composition of the ACPA response appeared not age dependent. Further biologic studies are needed to characterize the pathogenesis of ACPA-negative polyarthritis at older age and to promote personalized treatment decisions in ACPA-negative patients in daily practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie M Boeters
- Department of Rheumatology C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Leiden, 2300RC, The Netherlands.
| | - Lukas Mangnus
- Department of Rheumatology C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Leiden, 2300RC, The Netherlands
| | - Sofia Ajeganova
- Department of Rheumatology C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Leiden, 2300RC, The Netherlands.,Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Lindqvist
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Rheumatology, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Björn Svensson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Rheumatology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - René E M Toes
- Department of Rheumatology C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Leiden, 2300RC, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert A Trouw
- Department of Rheumatology C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Leiden, 2300RC, The Netherlands
| | - Tom W J Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology C1-R, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, Leiden, 2300RC, The Netherlands
| | - Francis Berenbaum
- Department of Rheumatology, Sorbonne University, INSERM UMR_S938, DHU i2B, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jacques Morel
- Department of Rheumatology, Teaching Hospital Lapeyronie and Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
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Corneth OBJ, Verstappen GMP, Paulissen SMJ, de Bruijn MJW, Rip J, Lukkes M, van Hamburg JP, Lubberts E, Bootsma H, Kroese FGM, Hendriks RW. Enhanced Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Activity in Peripheral Blood B Lymphocytes From Patients With Autoimmune Disease. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 69:1313-1324. [PMID: 28141917 DOI: 10.1002/art.40059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) transmits crucial survival signals from the B cell receptor (BCR) in B cells. Pharmacologic BTK inhibition effectively diminishes disease symptoms in mouse models of autoimmunity; conversely, transgenic BTK overexpression induces systemic autoimmunity in mice. We undertook this study to investigate BTK expression and activity in human B cells in the context of autoimmune disease. METHODS Using intracellular flow cytometry, we quantified BTK expression and phosphorylation in subsets of peripheral blood B cells from 30 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 26 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS), and matched healthy controls. RESULTS In circulating B cells, BTK protein expression levels correlated with BTK phosphorylation. BTK expression was up-regulated upon BCR stimulation in vitro and was significantly higher in CD27+ memory B cells than in CD27-IgD+ naive B cells. Importantly, BTK protein and phospho-BTK were significantly increased in B cells from anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)-positive RA patients but not in B cells from ACPA-negative RA patients. BTK was increased both in naive B cells and in memory B cells and correlated with frequencies of circulating CCR6+ Th17 cells. Likewise, BTK protein was increased in B cells from a major fraction of patients with primary SS and correlated with serum rheumatoid factor levels and parotid gland T cell infiltration. Interestingly, targeting T cell activation in patients with primary SS using the CTLA-4Ig fusion protein abatacept restored BTK protein expression in B cells to normal levels. CONCLUSION These data indicate that autoimmune disease in humans is characterized by enhanced BTK activity, which is linked not only to autoantibody formation but also to T cell activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jasper Rip
- Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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The role of autoantibodies in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis. Semin Immunopathol 2017; 39:437-446. [PMID: 28451788 PMCID: PMC5486798 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-017-0627-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation. The presence of autoantibodies in the sera of RA patients has provided many clues to the underlying disease pathophysiology. Based on the presence of several autoantibodies like rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA), anti-carbamylated protein antibodies (anti-CarP), and more recently anti-acetylated protein antibodies RA can be subdivided into seropositive and seronegative disease. The formation of these autoantibodies is associated with both genetic and environmental risk factors for RA, like specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles and smoking. Autoantibodies can be detected many years before disease onset in a subset of patients, suggesting a sequence of events in which the first autoantibodies develop in predisposed hosts, before an inflammatory response ensues leading to clinically apparent arthritis. Research on the characteristics and effector functions of these autoantibodies might provide more insight in pathophysiological processes underlying arthritis in RA. Recent data suggests that ACPA might play a role in perpetuating inflammation once it has developed. Furthermore, pathophysiological mechanisms have been discovered supporting a direct link between the presence of ACPA and both bone erosions and pain in RA patients. In conclusion, investigating the possible pathogenic potential of autoantibodies might lead to improved understanding of the underlying pathophysiological processes in rheumatoid arthritis.
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Beyond citrullination: other post-translational protein modifications in rheumatoid arthritis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2017; 13:331-339. [PMID: 28275265 DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum.2017.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The presence of autoantibodies is one of the hallmarks of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the past few decades, rheumatoid factors (autoantibodies that recognize the Fc-tail of immunoglobulins) as well as anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) have been studied intensively. ACPAs recognize post-translationally modified proteins in which the amino acid arginine has been converted into a citrulline. More recently, other autoantibody systems recognizing post-translationally modified proteins have also gained attention, including autoantibodies recognizing fragmented immunoglobulin (anti-hinge antibodies), autoantibodies recognizing acetylated proteins and autoantibodies recognizing proteins that are modified by adducts formed under oxidative stress. In particular, detailed insights have been obtained on the presence and properties of autoantibodies recognizing carbamylated proteins, commonly called anti-carbamylated protein (anti-CarP) antibodies. In this Review, we summarize the current knowledge relating to these emerging autoantibodies that recognize post-translationally modified proteins identified in RA, with an emphasis on anti-CarP antibodies.
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