1
|
Valk AM, Keijser JBD, van Dam KPJ, Stalman EW, Wieske L, Steenhuis M, Kummer LYL, Spuls PI, Bekkenk MW, Musters AH, Post NF, Bosma AL, Horváth B, Hijnen DJ, Schreurs CRG, van Kempen ZLE, Killestein J, Volkers AG, Tas SW, Boekel L, Wolbink GJ, Keijzer S, Derksen NIL, van Deelen M, van Mierlo G, Kuijpers TW, Eftimov F, van Ham SM, Ten Brinke A, Rispens T. Suppressed IgG4 class switching in dupilumab- and TNF inhibitor-treated patients after mRNA vaccination. Allergy 2024. [PMID: 38439527 DOI: 10.1111/all.16089] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The noninflammatory immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) is linked to tolerance and is unique to humans. Although poorly understood, prolonged antigenic stimulation and IL-4-signaling along the T helper 2-axis may be instrumental in IgG4 class switching. Recently, repeated SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination has been linked to IgG4 skewing. Although widely used immunosuppressive drugs have been shown to only moderately affect humoral responses to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination, the effect on IgG4 switching has not been investigated. METHODS Here we study the impact of such immunosuppressive drugs, including the IL-4 receptor-blocking antibody dupilumab, on IgG4 skewing upon repeated SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination. Receptor-binding domain (RBD) specific antibody responses were longitudinally measured in 600 individuals, including patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases treated with a TNF inhibitor (TNFi) and/or methotrexate (MTX), dupilumab, and healthy/untreated controls, after repeated mRNA vaccination. RESULTS We observed a substantial increase in the proportion of RBD-specific IgG4 antibodies (median 21%) in healthy/untreated controls after third vaccination. This IgG4 skewing was profoundly reduced in dupilumab-treated patients (<1%). Unexpectedly, an equally strong suppression of IgG4 skewing was observed in TNFi-treated patients (<1%), whereas MTX caused a modest reduction (7%). RBD-specific total IgG levels were hardly affected by these immunosuppressive drugs. Minimal skewing was observed, when primary vaccination was adenoviral vector-based. CONCLUSIONS Our results imply a critical role for IL-4/IL-13 as well as TNF in vivo IgG4 class switching. These novel findings advance our understanding of IgG4 class switch dynamics, and may benefit humoral tolerance induction strategies, treatment of IgG4 pathologies and mRNA vaccine optimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anika M Valk
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jim B D Keijser
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Koos P J van Dam
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eileen W Stalman
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Luuk Wieske
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Maurice Steenhuis
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Y L Kummer
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Phyllis I Spuls
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health/Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel W Bekkenk
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health/Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelie H Musters
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health/Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicoline F Post
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health/Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Angela L Bosma
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health/Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Horváth
- Department of Dermatology, UMCG Expertise Center for Blistering Diseases, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk-Jan Hijnen
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Corine R G Schreurs
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Zoé L E van Kempen
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joep Killestein
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adriaan G Volkers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sander W Tas
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Boekel
- Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit J Wolbink
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sofie Keijzer
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ninotska I L Derksen
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Melanie van Deelen
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard van Mierlo
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Taco W Kuijpers
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Rheumatology and Infectious Disease, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Filip Eftimov
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Marieke van Ham
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anja Ten Brinke
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Theo Rispens
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Motta RV, Culver EL. IgG4 autoantibodies and autoantigens in the context of IgG4-autoimmune disease and IgG4-related disease. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1272084. [PMID: 38433835 PMCID: PMC10904653 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1272084] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulins are an essential part of the humoral immune response. IgG4 antibodies are the least prevalent subclass and have unique structural and functional properties. In this review, we discuss IgG4 class switch and B cell production. We review the importance of IgG4 antibodies in the context of allergic responses, helminth infections and malignancy. We discuss their anti-inflammatory and tolerogenic effects in allergen-specific immunotherapy, and ability to evade the immune system in parasitic infection and tumour cells. We then focus on the role of IgG4 autoantibodies and autoantigens in IgG4-autoimmune diseases and IgG4-related disease, highlighting important parallels and differences between them. In IgG4-autoimmune diseases, pathogenesis is based on a direct role of IgG4 antibodies binding to self-antigens and disturbing homeostasis. In IgG4-related disease, where affected organs are infiltrated with IgG4-expressing plasma cells, IgG4 antibodies may also directly target a number of self-antigens or be overexpressed as an epiphenomenon of the disease. These antigen-driven processes require critical T and B cell interaction. Lastly, we explore the current gaps in our knowledge and how these may be addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo V. Motta
- Translational Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Emma L. Culver
- Translational Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Paardekooper LM, Fillié-Grijpma YE, van der Sluijs-Gelling AJ, Zlei M, van Doorn R, Vermeer MH, Paunovic M, Titulaer MJ, van der Maarel SM, van Dongen JJM, Verschuuren JJ, Huijbers MG. Autoantibody subclass predominance is not driven by aberrant class switching or impaired B cell development. Clin Immunol 2023; 257:109817. [PMID: 37925120 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109817] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
A subset of autoimmune diseases is characterized by predominant pathogenic IgG4 autoantibodies (IgG4-AID). Why IgG4 predominates in these disorders is unknown. We hypothesized that dysregulated B cell maturation or aberrant class switching causes overrepresentation of IgG4+ B cells and plasma cells. Therefore, we compared the B cell compartment of patients from four different IgG4-AID with two IgG1-3-AID and healthy donors, using flow cytometry. Relative subset abundance at all maturation stages was normal, except for a, possibly treatment-related, reduction in immature and naïve CD5+ cells. IgG4+ B cell and plasma cell numbers were normal in IgG4-AID patients, however they had a (sub)class-independent 8-fold increase in circulating CD20-CD138+ cells. No autoreactivity was found in this subset. These results argue against aberrant B cell development and rather suggest the autoantibody subclass predominance to be antigen-driven. The similarities between IgG4-AID suggest that, despite displaying variable clinical phenotypes, they share a similar underlying immune profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mihaela Zlei
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Remco van Doorn
- Department of Dermatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten H Vermeer
- Department of Dermatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Manuela Paunovic
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten J Titulaer
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jacques J M van Dongen
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (CIC-IBMCC, USAL-CSIC-FICUS) and Department of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jan J Verschuuren
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje G Huijbers
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rispens T, Huijbers MG. The unique properties of IgG4 and its roles in health and disease. Nat Rev Immunol 2023; 23:763-778. [PMID: 37095254 PMCID: PMC10123589 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00871-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
IgG4 is the least abundant subclass of IgG in human serum and has unique functional features. IgG4 is largely unable to activate antibody-dependent immune effector responses and, furthermore, undergoes Fab (fragment antigen binding)-arm exchange, rendering it bispecific for antigen binding and functionally monovalent. These properties of IgG4 have a blocking effect, either on the immune response or on the target protein of IgG4. In this Review, we discuss the unique structural characteristics of IgG4 and how these contribute to its roles in health and disease. We highlight how, depending on the setting, IgG4 responses can be beneficial (for example, in responses to allergens or parasites) or detrimental (for example, in autoimmune diseases, in antitumour responses and in anti-biologic responses). The development of novel models for studying IgG4 (patho)physiology and understanding how IgG4 responses are regulated could offer insights into novel treatment strategies for these IgG4-associated disease settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theo Rispens
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje G Huijbers
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bai Y, Li W, Yan C, Hou Y, Wang Q. Anti-rituximab antibodies in patients with refractory autoimmune nodopathy with anti-neurofascin-155 antibody. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1121705. [PMID: 37056784 PMCID: PMC10086195 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1121705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundRecent studies have reported that similar to other IgG4 autoimmune diseases, such as muscle-specific kinase antibody-associated myasthenia gravis, most anti-neurofascin-155 (anti-NF155) nodopathies respond well to rituximab treatment, regardless of the dosage. However, there are still a few patients for which rituximab is ineffective for unknown reasons. Currently, there are no studies on the mechanism of ineffective treatment with rituximab.MethodsA 33-year-old Chinese man presenting with numbness, tremor, and muscle weakness for 4 years was recruited for this study. Anti-NF155 antibodies were identified by cell-based assay and confirmed by immunofluorescence assay on teased fibers. The anti-NF155 immunoglobulin (IgG) subclasses were also detected by immunofluorescence assay. Anti-rituximab antibodies (ARAs) were quantitatively analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and peripheral B cell counts were determined by flow cytometry.ResultsThe patient exhibited anti-NF155 IgG4-antibody positivity. After the first round of rituximab infusion, the patient showed stratified outcomes with improvements in numbness, muscle weakness and ambulation. However, after three rounds of rituximab infusion, the patient’s symptoms deteriorated, and the numbness, tremor and muscle weakness returned. No obvious improvement was found after plasma exchange and another round of rituximab treatment. 14 days after the last treatment with rituximab, ARAs were detected. And the titers gradually decreased on day 28 and 60 but remained higher than normal. Peripheral CD19+ B cell counts were less than 1% within the 2-month period following the final rituximab administration.ConclusionsIn this study, ARAs presented in a patient with anti-NF155 nodopathy undergoing rituximab treatment and showed an unfavorable impact on rituximab efficacy. This is the first case to report the occurrence of ARAs in patients with anti-NF155 antibodies. We suggest that ARAs should be tested early during the initial intervention, especially in patients who respond poorly to rituximab treatment. In addition, we believe it is necessary to investigate the association between ARAs and B cell counts, their effect on clinical efficacy, and their potential adverse reactions in a larger cohort of patients with anti-NF155 nodopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunfei Bai
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chuanzhu Yan
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Central Laboratory and Mitochondrial Medicine Laboratory, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- Brain Science Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ying Hou
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Qinzhou Wang, ; Ying Hou,
| | - Qinzhou Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Qinzhou Wang, ; Ying Hou,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yuksel M, Nazmi F, Wardat D, Akgül S, Polat E, Akyildiz M, Arikan Ç. Standard immunosuppressive treatment reduces regulatory B cells in children with autoimmune liver disease. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1053216. [PMID: 36685568 PMCID: PMC9849683 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1053216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic liver disease caused by a perturbed immune system. The scarcity of short- and long-term immune monitoring of AIH hampered us to comprehend the interaction between immunosuppressive medication and immune homeostasis. Methods and patients We recruited children with AIH at the time of diagnosis and at the 1st, 3rd, 6th, 12th, 18th, and 24th months of immunosuppression (IS). We also enrolled children with AIH being on IS for >2 years. Children with drug-induced liver injury (DILI), and those receiving tacrolimus after liver transplantation (LT), were enrolled as disease/IS control subjects. Healthy children (HC) were also recruited. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from all participants. Healthy liver tissue from adult donors and from livers without inflammation were obtained from children with hepatoblastoma. By using flow cytometry, we performed multi-parametric immune profiling of PBMCs and intrahepatic lymphocytes. Additionally, after IS with prednisolone, tacrolimus, rapamycin, or 6-mercaptopurine, we carried out an in vitro cytokine stimulation assay. Finally, a Lifecodes SSO typing kit was used to type HLA-DRB1 and Luminex was used to analyze the results. Results Untreated AIH patients had lower total CD8 T-cell frequencies than HC, but these cells were more naïve. While the percentage of naïve regulatory T cells (Tregs) (CD4+FOXP3lowCD45RA+) and regulatory B cells (Bregs, CD20+CD24+CD38+) was similar, AIH patients had fewer activated Tregs (CD4+FOXP3highCD45RA - ) compared to HC. Mucosal-associated-invariant-T-cells (MAIT) were also lower in these patients. Following the initiation of IS, the immune profiles demonstrated fluctuations. Bregs frequency decreased substantially at 1 month and did not recover anymore. Additionally, the frequency of intrahepatic Bregs in treated AIH patients was lower, compared to control livers, DILI, and LT patients. Following in vitro IS drugs incubation, only the frequency of IL-10-producing total B-cells increased with tacrolimus and 6MP. Lastly, 70% of AIH patients possessed HLA-DR11, whereas HLA-DR03/DR07/DR13 was present in only some patients. Conclusion HLA-DR11 was prominent in our AIH cohort. Activated Tregs and MAIT cell frequencies were lower before IS. Importantly, we discovered a previously unrecognized and long-lasting Bregs scarcity in AIH patients after IS. Tacrolimus and 6MP increased IL-10+ B-cells in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Yuksel
- Paediatric Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye,Liver Immunology Lab, Koç University Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Farinaz Nazmi
- Paediatric Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye,Liver Immunology Lab, Koç University Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Dima Wardat
- Liver Immunology Lab, Koç University Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Sebahat Akgül
- Transplant Immunology Research Centre of Excellence (TIREX) Tissue Typing Lab, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Esra Polat
- Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sancaktepe Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Murat Akyildiz
- Adult Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Çigdem Arikan
- Paediatric Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye,Liver Immunology Lab, Koç University Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye,*Correspondence: Çigdem Arikan,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hou Y, Zhang C, Yu X, Wang W, Zhang D, Bai Y, Yan C, Ma L, Li A, Ji J, Cao L, Wang Q. Effect of low-dose rituximab treatment on autoimmune nodopathy with anti-contactin 1 antibody. Front Immunol 2022; 13:939062. [PMID: 35958552 PMCID: PMC9362773 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.939062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autoimmune nodopathy with anti-contactin-1 (CNTN1) responds well to rituximab instead of traditional therapies. Although a low-dose rituximab regimen was administered to patients with other autoimmune diseases, such as myasthenia gravis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, and satisfactory outcomes were obtained, this low-dose rituximab regimen has not been trialed in anti-CNTN1-positive patients. Methods Anti–CNTN1 nodopathy patients were enrolled in this prospective, open-label, self-controlled pilot study. A cell-based assay was used to detect anti-CNTN1 antibodies and their subclasses in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Clinical features were evaluated at baseline, 2 days, 14 days, and 6 months after single low-dose rituximab treatment (600 mg). The titers of the subclasses of anti-CNTN1 antibody and peripheral B cells were also evaluated at baseline, 2 days, and 6 months after the rituximab regimen. Results Two patients with anti–CNTN1 antibodies were enrolled. Both patients had neurological symptoms including muscle weakness, tremor, sensory ataxia, numbness and mild nephrotic symptoms. In the field of neurological symptoms, sensory ataxia markedly improved, and the titer of anti-CNTN1 antibody as well as CD19+ B cells decreased only two days following low-dose rituximab treatment. Other neurological symptoms improved within two weeks of rituximab treatment. At the 6-month follow-up, all neurological symptoms steadily improved with steroid reduction, and both the anti-CNTN1 antibody titer and CD19+ B cells steadily decreased. No adverse events were observed after this single low-dose rituximab treatment. Conclusions We confirmed the clinical efficacy of low-dose rituximab by B cell depletion in autoimmune nodopathy with anti-CNTN1 antibody. This rapid and long-lasting response suggests that low-dose rituximab is a promising option for anti-CNTN1 nodopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Hou
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaolin Yu
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenqing Wang
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yunfei Bai
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chuanzhu Yan
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Central Laboratory and Mitochondrial Medicine Laboratory, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- Brain Science Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Ma
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Anning Li
- Department of Radiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jian Ji
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lili Cao
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qinzhou Wang
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Qinzhou Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cao P, Yang M, Chang C, Wu H, Lu Q. Germinal Center-Related G Protein-Coupled Receptors in Antibody-Mediated Autoimmune Skin Diseases: from Basic Research to Clinical Trials. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2022; 63:357-370. [PMID: 35674978 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-022-08936-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Germinal center (GC) reaction greatly contributes to the humoral immune response, which begins in lymph nodes or other secondary lymphoid organs after follicular B cells are activated by T-dependent antigens. The GCs then serve as a platform for follicular B cells to complete clonal expansion and somatic hypermutation and then interact with follicular dendritic cells (FDC) and follicular helper T cells (Tfh). Through the interaction between the immune cells, significant processes of the humoral immune response are accomplished, such as antibody affinity maturation, class switching, and production of memory B cells and plasma cells. Cell positioning during the GC reaction is mainly mediated by the chemokine receptors and lipid receptors, which both belong to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) family. There are some orphan GPCRs whose endogenous ligands are unclear yet contribute to the regulation of GC reaction as well. This review will give an introduction on the ligands and functions of two types of GC-relating GPCRs-chemokine receptors like CXCR4 and CXCR5, as well as emerging de-orphanized GPCRs like GPR183, GPR174, and P2RY8. The roles these GPCRs play in several antibody-mediated autoimmune skin diseases will be also discussed, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), pemphigus, scleroderma, and dermatomyositis. Besides, GPCRs are excellent drug targets due to the unique structure and vital functions. Therefore, this review is aimed at providing readers with a focused knowledge about the role that GPCRs play in GC reaction, as well as in provoking the development of GPCR-targeting agents for immune-mediated diseases besides autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengpeng Cao
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Christopher Chang
- Division of Pediatric Immunology and Allergy, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, Hollywood, FL, 33021, USA.,Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Haijing Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 12 Jiangwangmiao Street, Nanjing, 210042, China. .,Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research On Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China. .,Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dalakas MC. Autoimmune Neurological Disorders with IgG4 Antibodies: a Distinct Disease Spectrum with Unique IgG4 Functions Responding to Anti-B Cell Therapies. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:741-752. [PMID: 35290608 PMCID: PMC9294117 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01210-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The main IgG4 antibody-mediated neurological disorders (IgG4-ND) include MuSK myasthenia; CIDP with nodal/paranodal antibodies to Neurofascin-155, contactin-1/caspr-1, or pan-neurofascins; anti-LGI1 and CASPR2-associated limbic encephalitis, Morvan syndrome, or neuromyotonia; and several cases of the anti-IgLON5 and anti-DPPX-spectrum CNS diseases. The paper is centered on the clinical spectrum of IgG4-ND and their immunopathogenesis highlighting the unique functional effects of the IgG4 subclass compared to IgG1-3 antibody subclasses. The IgG4 antibodies exert pathogenic effects on their targeted antigens by blocking enzymatic activity or disrupting protein-protein interactions affecting signal transduction pathways, but not by activating complement, binding to inhibitory FcγRIIb receptor or engaging in cross-linking of the targeted antigen with immune complex formation as the IgG1-IgG3 antibody subclasses do. IgG4 can even inhibit the classical complement pathway by affecting the affinity of IgG1-2 subclasses to C1q binding. Because the IgG4 antibodies do not trigger inflammatory processes or complement-mediated immune responses, the conventional anti-inflammatory therapies, especially with IVIg, immunosuppressants, and plasmapheresis, are ineffective or not sufficiently effective in inducing long-term remissions. In contrast, aiming at the activated plasmablasts connected with IgG4 antibody production is a meaningful therapeutic target in IgG4-ND. Indeed, data from large series of patients with MuSK myasthenia, CIDP with nodal/paranodal antibodies, and anti-LGI1 and CASPR2-associated syndromes indicate that B cell depletion therapy with rituximab exerts long-lasting clinical remissions by targeting memory B cells and IgG4-producing CD20-positive short-lived plasma cells. Because IgG4 antibody titers seem reduced in remissions and increased in exacerbation, they may serve as potential biomarkers of treatment response supporting further the pathogenic role of self-reacting B cells. Controlled trials are needed in IgG4-ND not only with rituximab but also with the other anti-B cell agents that target CD19/20, especially those like obexelimab and obinutuzumab, that concurrently activate the inhibitory FcγRIIb receptors which have low binding affinity to IgG4, exerting a more prolonged anti-B cell action affecting also antigen presentation and cytotoxic T cells. Antibody therapies targeting FcRn, testing those anti-FcRn inhibitors that effectively catabolize the IgG4 antibody subclass, may be especially promising.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marinos C Dalakas
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Neuroimmunology Unit National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dalakas MC. IgG4-Mediated Neurologic Autoimmunities: Understanding the Pathogenicity of IgG4, Ineffectiveness of IVIg, and Long-Lasting Benefits of Anti-B Cell Therapies. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2022; 9:9/1/e1116. [PMID: 34845096 PMCID: PMC8630661 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000001116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Describe the unique functions of immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) in IgG4-neurologic disorders (IgG4-ND) and explain why, in contrast to their IgG1-counterparts, they respond poorly to intravenous immune globulin (IVIg) but effectively to anti-B cell therapies. METHODS The IgG4 structure and isotype switch, B cells and plasmablasts relevant to IgG4 production, and IgG4-induced disruption of the targeted antigens are reviewed and compared with IgG1-mediated autoimmune ND, where IVIg inhibits IgG1-triggered inflammatory effects. RESULTS The main IgG4-ND include muscle-specific kinase myasthenia; nodal/paranodal chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy with antibodies to neurofascin-155, contactin-1/caspr-1, or pan-neurofascins; antileucine-rich, glioma-inactivated-1 and contactin-associated protein-like 2 associated-limbic encephalitis, Morvan syndrome, or neuromyotonia; and anti-IgLON5 disorder. The IgG4, because of its unique structural features in the hinge region, has noninflammatory properties being functionally monovalent and bispecific, unable to engage in cross-linking and internalization of the targeted antigen. In contrast to IgG1 subclass which is bivalent and monospecific, IgG4 does not activate complement and cannot bind to inhibitory Fcγ receptor (FcγRIIb) to activate cellular and complement-mediated immune responses, the key functions inhibited by IVIg. Because IVIg contains only 0.7%-2.6% IgG4, its idiotypes are of IgG1 subclass and cannot effectively neutralize IgG4 or sufficiently enhance IgG4 catabolism by saturating FcRn. In contrast, rituximab, by targeting memory B cells and IgG4-producing CD20-positive short-lived plasma cells, induces long-lasting clinical benefits. DISCUSSION Rituximab is the preferred treatment in IgG4-ND patients with severe disease by effectively targeting the production of pathogenic IgG-4 antibodies. In contrast, IVIG is ineffective because it inhibits immunoinflammatory functions irrelevant to the mechanistic effects of IgG4 and contains IgG-1 idiotypes that cannot sufficiently neutralize or possibly catabolize IgG4. Controlled studies with anti-CD19/20 monoclonals that also activate FcγRIIb may be more promising in treating IgG4-ND.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marinos C Dalakas
- From Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA; and the University of Athens Medical School, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sasaki T, Akiyama M, Kaneko Y, Takeuchi T. IgG4-related disease and idiopathic multicentric Castleman's disease: confusable immune-mediated disorders. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:490-501. [PMID: 34363463 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) and idiopathic multicentric Castleman's disease (iMCD) are both rare systemic immune-mediated disorders. However, pathogenesis differs markedly between the two diseases, and differing therapeutic strategies are adopted: IgG4-RD is treated using a moderate dose of glucocorticoids or rituximab, while iMCD therapy involves an interleukin (IL)-6 targeted approach. Nonetheless, some clinical features of IgG4-RD and iMCD overlap, so differential diagnosis is sometimes difficult, even though the classification and diagnostic criteria of the diseases require careful exclusion of the other. The key findings in IgG4-RD are high IgG4/IgG ratio, allergic features, and germinal centre expansion involving T follicular helper cells, while iMCD involves polyclonal antibody production (high IgA and IgM levels), sheet-like mature plasma cell proliferation, and inflammatory features driven by IL-6. The distribution of organ involvement also provides important clues in both diseases. Particular attention should be given to differential diagnosis using combined clinical and/or pathological findings, because single features cannot distinguish IgG4-RD from iMCD. In the present review, we discuss the similarities and differences between IgG4-RD and iMCD, as well as how to distinguish the two diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Sasaki
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Akiyama
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Kaneko
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zografou C, Vakrakou AG, Stathopoulos P. Short- and Long-Lived Autoantibody-Secreting Cells in Autoimmune Neurological Disorders. Front Immunol 2021; 12:686466. [PMID: 34220839 PMCID: PMC8248361 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.686466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
As B cells differentiate into antibody-secreting cells (ASCs), short-lived plasmablasts (SLPBs) are produced by a primary extrafollicular response, followed by the generation of memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells (LLPCs) in germinal centers (GCs). Generation of IgG4 antibodies is T helper type 2 (Th2) and IL-4, -13, and -10-driven and can occur parallel to IgE, in response to chronic stimulation by allergens and helminths. Although IgG4 antibodies are non-crosslinking and have limited ability to mobilize complement and cellular cytotoxicity, when self-tolerance is lost, they can disrupt ligand-receptor binding and cause a wide range of autoimmune disorders including neurological autoimmunity. In myasthenia gravis with predominantly IgG4 autoantibodies against muscle-specific kinase (MuSK), it has been observed that one-time CD20+ B cell depletion with rituximab commonly leads to long-term remission and a marked reduction in autoantibody titer, pointing to a short-lived nature of autoantibody-secreting cells. This is also observed in other predominantly IgG4 autoantibody-mediated neurological disorders, such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and autoimmune encephalitis with autoantibodies against the Ranvier paranode and juxtaparanode, respectively, and extends beyond neurological autoimmunity as well. Although IgG1 autoantibody-mediated neurological disorders can also respond well to rituximab induction therapy in combination with an autoantibody titer drop, remission tends to be less long-lasting and cases where titers are refractory tend to occur more often than in IgG4 autoimmunity. Moreover, presence of GC-like structures in the thymus of myasthenic patients with predominantly IgG1 autoantibodies against the acetylcholine receptor and in ovarian teratomas of autoimmune encephalitis patients with predominantly IgG1 autoantibodies against the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) confers increased the ability to generate LLPCs. Here, we review available information on the short-and long-lived nature of ASCs in IgG1 and IgG4 autoantibody-mediated neurological disorders and highlight common mechanisms as well as differences, all of which can inform therapeutic strategies and personalized medical approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Zografou
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A G Vakrakou
- First Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - P Stathopoulos
- First Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhao Q, Dai H, Liu X, Jiang H, Liu W, Feng Z, Zhang N, Gao Y, Dong Z, Zhou X, Du J, Zhang N, Rui H, Yuan L, Liu B. Helper T Cells in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:665629. [PMID: 34093559 PMCID: PMC8173183 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.665629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system produces an antibody response to its own antigens due to impaired immune tolerance. Although antibodies are derived from plasma cells differentiated by B cells, the T-B cells also contribute a lot to the immune system. In particular, the subsets of helper T (Th) cells, including the dominant subsets such as Th2, Th17, and follicular helper T (Tfh) cells and the inferior subsets such as regulatory T (Treg) cells, shape the immune imbalance of IMN and promote the incidence and development of autoimmune responses. After reviewing the physiological knowledge of various subpopulations of Th cells and combining the existing studies on Th cells in IMN, the role model of Th cells in IMN was explained in this review. Finally, the existing clinical treatment regimens for IMN were reviewed, and the importance of the therapy for Th cells was highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qihan Zhao
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haoran Dai
- Shunyi Branch, Beijing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xianli Liu
- Shunyi Branch, Beijing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hanxue Jiang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbin Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhendong Feng
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Chinese Medicine Hospital Pinggu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Gao
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaocheng Dong
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoshan Zhou
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jieli Du
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Naiqian Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hongliang Rui
- Beijing Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Baoli Liu
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cargill T, Culver EL. The Role of B Cells and B Cell Therapies in Immune-Mediated Liver Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:661196. [PMID: 33936097 PMCID: PMC8079753 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.661196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
B cells form a branch of the adaptive immune system, essential for the body’s immune defense against pathogens. B cell dysfunction has been implicated in the pathogenesis of immune mediated liver diseases including autoimmune hepatitis, IgG4-related hepatobiliary disease, primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. B cells may initiate and maintain immune related liver diseases in several ways including the production of autoantibodies and the activation of T cells via antigen presentation or cytokine production. Here we comprehensively review current knowledge on B cell mechanisms in immune mediated liver diseases, exploring disease pathogenesis, B cell therapies, and novel treatment targets. We identify key areas where future research should focus to enable the development of targeted B cell therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamsin Cargill
- Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Emma L Culver
- Oxford Liver Unit, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are the first-line drug for the remission induction therapy of immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related disease. Achieving drug-free remission using glucocorticoids alone is difficult, however, and many patients require maintenance therapy with glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants. Studies have recently found that the number of peripheral memory B cells and plasmablasts is increased in IgG4-related disease and have indicated the efficacy of rituximab, which, in remission induction therapy, rapidly reduces serum IgG4 levels and has the tapering effect of glucocorticoids. Rituximab has been shown to reduce the risk of relapse more than oral immunosuppressants such as azathioprine. However, maintaining drug-free remission is difficult with a single course of rituximab alone, and many cases require maintenance therapy with rituximab. This article outlines the potential of B-cell targeted therapy, focusing on the efficacy, and safety of rituximab for IgG4-related disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Motohisa Yamamoto
- Department of Rheumatology and Allergy, IMSUT Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|