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Huda R. Inflammation and autoimmune myasthenia gravis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1110499. [PMID: 36793733 PMCID: PMC9923104 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1110499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neuromuscular autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic but intermittent fatigue of the eye- and general body muscles. Muscle weakness is caused primarily by the binding of an autoantibody to the acetylcholine receptors, resulting in blockage of normal neuromuscular signal transmission. Studies revealed substantial contributions of different proinflammatory or inflammatory mediators in the pathogenesis of MG. Despite these findings, compared to therapeutic approaches that target autoantibody and complements, only a few therapeutics against key inflammatory molecules have been designed or tested in MG clinical trials. Recent research focuses largely on identifying unknown molecular pathways and novel targets involved in inflammation associated with MG. A well-designed combination or adjunct treatment utilizing one or more selective and validated promising biomarkers of inflammation as a component of targeted therapy may yield better treatment outcomes. This review briefly discusses some preclinical and clinical findings of inflammation associated with MG and current therapy approaches and suggest the potential of targeting important inflammatory marker(s) along with current monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment based targeted therapies directed to a variety of cell surface receptors.
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Zhang E, Wu Y, Chen C, Wei R, Zhang J, Xie H, Wei C, Ma L, Dong X, Li R, Zhou Y, Cui Y, Wu Y. Effect of different initial rituximab regimens on B cell depletion in children with autoimmune neurological diseases. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 59:103510. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Li Y, Chen P, Huang H, Feng H, Ran H, Liu W. Quantification of dendritic cell subsets in human thymus tissues of various ages. IMMUNITY & AGEING 2021; 18:44. [PMID: 34794472 PMCID: PMC8600781 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-021-00255-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background Dendritic cells (DCs) in the thymus are involved in central tolerance formation, but they also have other functions in the thymus, such as pathogen recognition. The density changes of human thymic DCs have been hardly investigated. In this study, human thymus samples of various ages were collected for tissue sectioning and staining. The thymic cortex and medulla area as well as the densities of various subsets of thymic DCs were calculated. Results All common DC subsets were found in the human thymus of various ages. Most DCs had accumulated in the human thymic epithelial space, especially the medulla. We also found that the human thymic cortex had atrophied relatively faster than the medulla, which led to a gradual increase of the area ratio of the medulla to cortex with the increase of age. The densities of DC subsets in the human thymus showed various changes with increasing age, which contributed to the composition changes of DC subsets. The density of plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) in the human thymus had increased gradually with aging, which suggested that pDCs plays another essential role in the thymus in addition to central tolerance. Conclusions Inconsistent with the shrinking of the epithelial space in the thymus, the densities of DC subsets in the epithelial space of the thymus are maintained at a constant level with aging to preserve highly efficient autoreactive thymocyte screening. An increasing density of the thymic pDCs with aging implies an extra function of DCs in the thymus beyond central tolerance. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12979-021-00255-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Pei Chen
- Department of Neurology, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, 530022, China
| | - Huiyu Feng
- Department of Neurology, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Hao Ran
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Weibin Liu
- Department of Neurology, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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4
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Menghesha H, Schroeter M, Doerr F, Schlachtenberger G, Heldwein MB, Chiapponi C, Wahlers T, Bruns C, Hekmat K. [The value of thymectomy in the treatment of non-thymomatous myasthenia gravis]. Chirurg 2021; 93:48-55. [PMID: 34132824 PMCID: PMC8766382 DOI: 10.1007/s00104-021-01436-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The value of thymectomy in the treatment of non-thymomatous myasthenia gravis has been controversially discussed. The relatively low incidence and prevalence of this disease, the inconsistent documentation in various studies and the necessity of a long-term follow-up to assess the therapeutic effects has made the generation of valid data difficult. The publication in 2016 of the MGTX trial in the New England Journal of Medicine delivered the first randomized controlled data in which patients aged 18-65 years with generalized myasthenia gravis and positive for acetylcholine receptor antibodies showed a significant benefit after surgical resection of the thymus via median sternotomy. Despite a lack of validation of the advantages of thymectomy by minimally invasive surgery from randomized controlled studies, this technique seems to positively influence the outcome of certain patient groups in a similar way. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) using subxyphoidal and transcervical access routes showed not only esthetic advantages but also showed no relevant inferiority in the influence on clinical outcomes of myasthenia gravis compared to median sternotomy; however, not only the benefits and the esthetic results show differences but also the advantages in the various subtypes of myasthenia gravis show divergent prospects of success with respect to remission. The clinical spectrum of myasthenia is heterogeneous with respect to the occurrence of antibodies, the body region affected and the age of the patient at first diagnosis. Ultimately, thymectomy is an effective causal treatment of myasthenia gravis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hruy Menghesha
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Herzchirurgie, herzchirurgische Intensivmedizin und Thoraxchirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Kerpener Straße 62, 50931, Köln, Deutschland.
| | - Michael Schroeter
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Fabian Doerr
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Herzchirurgie, herzchirurgische Intensivmedizin und Thoraxchirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Kerpener Straße 62, 50931, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Georg Schlachtenberger
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Herzchirurgie, herzchirurgische Intensivmedizin und Thoraxchirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Kerpener Straße 62, 50931, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Matthias B Heldwein
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Herzchirurgie, herzchirurgische Intensivmedizin und Thoraxchirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Kerpener Straße 62, 50931, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Costanza Chiapponi
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Allgemein‑, Viszeral‑, Tumor-, und Transplantationschirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Thorsten Wahlers
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Herzchirurgie, herzchirurgische Intensivmedizin und Thoraxchirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Kerpener Straße 62, 50931, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Christiane Bruns
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Allgemein‑, Viszeral‑, Tumor-, und Transplantationschirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Khosro Hekmat
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Herzchirurgie, herzchirurgische Intensivmedizin und Thoraxchirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Kerpener Straße 62, 50931, Köln, Deutschland
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5
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Ingelfinger F, Krishnarajah S, Kramer M, Utz SG, Galli E, Lutz M, Zwicky P, Akarca AU, Jurado NP, Ulutekin C, Bamert D, Widmer CC, Piccoli L, Sallusto F, Núñez NG, Marafioti T, Schneiter D, Opitz I, Lanzavecchia A, Jung HH, De Feo D, Mundt S, Schreiner B, Becher B. Single-cell profiling of myasthenia gravis identifies a pathogenic T cell signature. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 141:901-915. [PMID: 33774709 PMCID: PMC8113175 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-021-02299-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease characterized by impaired neuromuscular signaling due to autoantibodies targeting the acetylcholine receptor. Although its auto-antigens and effector mechanisms are well defined, the cellular and molecular drivers underpinning MG remain elusive. Here, we employed high-dimensional single-cell mass and spectral cytometry of blood and thymus samples from MG patients in combination with supervised and unsupervised machine-learning tools to gain insight into the immune dysregulation underlying MG. By creating a comprehensive immune map, we identified two dysregulated subsets of inflammatory circulating memory T helper (Th) cells. These signature ThCD103 and ThGM cells populated the diseased thymus, were reduced in the blood of MG patients, and were inversely correlated with disease severity. Both signature Th subsets rebounded in the blood of MG patients after surgical thymus removal, indicative of their role as cellular markers of disease activity. Together, this in-depth analysis of the immune landscape of MG provides valuable insight into disease pathogenesis, suggests novel biomarkers and identifies new potential therapeutic targets for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Ingelfinger
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Michael Kramer
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università Della Svizzera Italiana, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian G Utz
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Edoardo Galli
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Lutz
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pascale Zwicky
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ayse U Akarca
- Department of Cellular Pathology, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Can Ulutekin
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Bamert
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Corinne C Widmer
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Luca Piccoli
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università Della Svizzera Italiana, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Federica Sallusto
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università Della Svizzera Italiana, Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicolás G Núñez
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Teresa Marafioti
- Department of Cellular Pathology, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Didier Schneiter
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Opitz
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Antonio Lanzavecchia
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università Della Svizzera Italiana, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Hans H Jung
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Donatella De Feo
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Mundt
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bettina Schreiner
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Burkhard Becher
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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6
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Marx A, Yamada Y, Simon-Keller K, Schalke B, Willcox N, Ströbel P, Weis CA. Thymus and autoimmunity. Semin Immunopathol 2021; 43:45-64. [PMID: 33537838 PMCID: PMC7925479 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-021-00842-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The thymus prevents autoimmune diseases through mechanisms that operate in the cortex and medulla, comprising positive and negative selection and the generation of regulatory T-cells (Tregs). Egress from the thymus through the perivascular space (PVS) to the blood is another possible checkpoint, as shown by some autoimmune/immunodeficiency syndromes. In polygenic autoimmune diseases, subtle thymic dysfunctions may compound genetic, hormonal and environmental cues. Here, we cover (a) tolerance-inducing cell types, whether thymic epithelial or tuft cells, or dendritic, B- or thymic myoid cells; (b) tolerance-inducing mechanisms and their failure in relation to thymic anatomic compartments, and with special emphasis on human monogenic and polygenic autoimmune diseases and the related thymic pathologies, if known; (c) polymorphisms and mutations of tolerance-related genes with an impact on positive selection (e.g. the gene encoding the thymoproteasome-specific subunit, PSMB11), promiscuous gene expression (e.g. AIRE, PRKDC, FEZF2, CHD4), Treg development (e.g. SATB1, FOXP3), T-cell migration (e.g. TAGAP) and egress from the thymus (e.g. MTS1, CORO1A); (d) myasthenia gravis as the prototypic outcome of an inflamed or disordered neoplastic ‘sick thymus’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Marx
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Yosuke Yamada
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Katja Simon-Keller
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Berthold Schalke
- Department of Neurology, Bezirkskrankenhaus, University of Regensburg, 93042, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Nick Willcox
- Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurology, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Philipp Ströbel
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttigen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Cleo-Aron Weis
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
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7
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Takahagi A, Omasa M, Chen-Yoshikawa TF, Hamaji M, Yoshizawa A, Sozu T, Sonobe M, Date H. Anterior mediastinal tissue volume is correlated with antiacetylcholine receptor antibody level in myasthenia gravis. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2017; 155:2738-2744. [PMID: 29233593 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2017.10.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Extended thymectomy is a treatment option for myasthenia gravis (MG), but the surgical indications are controversial. Pathologic features of the thymus can be used to predict surgical outcomes, but there is no reliable method for evaluating these characteristics preoperatively. The purpose of this study was to determine whether anterior mediastinal tissue volume, as measured via 3-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) volumetry, correlates with serum anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChRAb) levels in patients undergoing thymectomy for myasthenia gravis. Therefore, we investigated the relationships among anterior mediastinal tissue volume determined by 3DCT volumetry and AChRAb levels. METHODS The subjects were 28 patients who underwent extended thymectomy and were enrolled retrospectively. We measured volume of the anterior mediastinum and calculated the volumes of more than -30 Hounsfield units (V-30) by using 3DCT volumetry and compared them with perioperative AChRAb levels. The significance of their volumes in MG was examined by comparison with 53 patients without MG. RESULTS V-30 values were related to age and were significantly greater in patients with MG than in patients without MG (P < .001). V-30 values were correlated positively with preoperative AChRAb levels (ρ = 0.505, P = .006) and inversely with the post/preoperative AChRAb ratio (ρ = -0.453, P = .018). The histologic nonadipose tissue ratio was correlated with the V-30/volume of the anterior mediastinum (ρ = 0.700, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS This method for evaluation of the anterior mediastinal tissue volume and AChRAb production may be helpful in establishing a treatment plan for MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Takahagi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mitsugu Omasa
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nishikobe Medical Center, Hyogo, Japan.
| | | | - Masatsugu Hamaji
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akihiko Yoshizawa
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takashi Sozu
- Department of Information and Computer Technology, Faculty of Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Sonobe
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Date
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
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8
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Weis CA, Märkl B, Schuster T, Vollert K, Ströbel P, Marx A. [True thymic hyperplasia : Differential diagnosis of thymic mass lesions in neonates and children]. DER PATHOLOGE 2017; 38:286-293. [PMID: 28429039 DOI: 10.1007/s00292-017-0283-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Reactive and neoplastic thymic pathologies are the main considerations in the case of masses in the anterior and middle part of the mediastinum, while neurogenic tumors are predominant in the posterior mediastinum (which are not dealt with here). In neonates and infants, the commonest pathologies in the anterior mediastinum comprise germ cell tumors (mainly teratomas), congenital thymic cysts and true thymic hyperplasia (TTH). In toddlers, teratomas, yolk sac tumors and cysts predominate. In children over 5 years of age, lymphomas are the commonest mass lesions whereas thymomas and thymic carcinomas are rare. In addition, inflammation-linked hyperplasia in myasthenia gravis and rebound thymic hyperplasia after chemotherapy must be considered. Although rare at all ages, sarcomas must be considered in the differential diagnosis from birth onwards and throughout adolescence. Based on the report of a rare case of recurrent TTH, the differential diagnosis of this benign but potentially life-threatening condition is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-A Weis
- Pathologisches Institut, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Theodor Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Deutschland.
| | - B Märkl
- Institut für Pathologie, Klinikum Augsburg, Augsburg, Deutschland
| | - T Schuster
- Kinderchirurgische Klinik, Klinikum Augsburg, Augsburg, Deutschland
| | - K Vollert
- Klinik für Diagnostische Radiologie und Neuroradiologie, Klinikum Augsburg, Augsburg, Deutschland
| | - P Ströbel
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - A Marx
- Pathologisches Institut, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Theodor Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Deutschland
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Alahgholi-Hajibehzad M, Kasapoglu P, Jafari R, Rezaei N. The role of T regulatory cells in immunopathogenesis of myasthenia gravis: implications for therapeutics. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2015; 11:859-70. [DOI: 10.1586/1744666x.2015.1047345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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10
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Marx A, Porubsky S, Belharazem D, Saruhan-Direskeneli G, Schalke B, Ströbel P, Weis CA. Thymoma related myasthenia gravis in humans and potential animal models. Exp Neurol 2015; 270:55-65. [PMID: 25700911 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2015.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Revised: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Thymoma-associated Myasthenia gravis (TAMG) is one of the anti-acetylcholine receptor MG (AChR-MG) subtypes. The clinico-pathological features of TAMG and its pathogenesis are described here in comparison with pathogenetic models suggested for the more common non-thymoma AChR-MG subtypes, early onset MG and late onset MG. Emphasis is put on the role of abnormal intratumorous T cell selection and activation, lack of intratumorous myoid cells and regulatory T cells as well as deficient expression of the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) by neoplastic thymic epithelial cells. We review spontaneous and genetically engineered thymoma models in a spectrum of animals and the extensive clinical and immunological overlap between canine, feline and human TAMG. Finally, limitations and perspectives of the transplantation of human and murine thymoma tissue into nude mice, as potential models for TAMG, are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Marx
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 13, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Stefan Porubsky
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 13, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Djeda Belharazem
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 13, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Güher Saruhan-Direskeneli
- Department of Physiology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Capa 34093, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Berthold Schalke
- Department of Neurology, Bezirkskrankenhaus, University of Regensburg, D-93042 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Philipp Ströbel
- Institute of Pathology, University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, D-37075 Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Cleo-Aron Weis
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 13, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany.
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11
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Zhang X, Liu S, Chang T, Xu J, Zhang C, Tian F, Sun Y, Song C, Yi W, Lin H, Li Z, Yang K. Intrathymic Tfh/B Cells Interaction Leads to Ectopic GCs Formation and Anti-AChR Antibody Production: Central Role in Triggering MG Occurrence. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 53:120-131. [PMID: 25407929 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8985-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is a typical acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody-mediated autoimmune disease in which thymus frequently presents follicular hyperplasia or thymoma. It is now widely accepted that the thymus is probably the site of AChR autosensitization and autoantibody production. However, the exact mechanism that triggers intrathymic AChR antibody production is still unknown. T follicular helper cells, recently identified responsible for B cell maturation and antibody production in the secondary lymphoid organs, were involved in many autoimmune diseases. Newly studies found T follicular helper (Tfh) cells increased in the peripheral blood of myasthenia gravis (MG). Whether it appears in the thymus of MG and its role in the intrathymic B cells help and autoantibody production is unclear. Therefore, this study aims to determine in more detail whether Tfh/B cell interaction exist in MG thymus and to address its role in the ectopic germinal centers (GCs) formation and AChR antibody production. We observed the frequency of Tfh cells and its associated transcription factor Bcl-6, key cytokine IL-21 enhanced both in the thymocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of MG patients. In parallel, we also showed increased B cells and autoantibody titers in MG peripheral blood and thymus. Confocal microscope results demonstrated Tfh and B cells co-localized within the ectopic GCs in MG thymus, suggesting putative existence of Tfh/B cells interaction. In vitro studies further showed dynamic behavior of Tfh/B cells interaction and Tfh cells induced autoantibody secretion might through its effector cytokine IL-21. Altogether, our data demonstrated that intrathymic Tfh/B cells interaction played a key role in thymic ectopic GCs formation and anti-AChR antibody production, which might trigger MG occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
- Department of Immunology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Lanzhou General Hospital, Lanzhou Command of CPLA, Lanzhou, 730050, Gansu Province, China
| | - Shasha Liu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
- Department of Immunology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Ting Chang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jiang Xu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chunmei Zhang
- Department of Immunology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Feng Tian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yuanjie Sun
- Department of Immunology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chaojun Song
- Department of Immunology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Wei Yi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hong Lin
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Zhuyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Immunology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
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Keijzers M, de Baets M, Hochstenbag M, Abdul-Hamid M, zur Hausen A, van der Linden M, Kuks J, Verschuuren J, Kessels F, Dingemans AMC, Maessen J. Robotic thymectomy in patients with myasthenia gravis: neurological and surgical outcomes. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2014; 48:40-5. [DOI: 10.1093/ejcts/ezu352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
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13
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Moser B, Janik S, Schiefer AI, Müllauer L, Bekos C, Scharrer A, Mildner M, Rényi-Vámos F, Klepetko W, Ankersmit HJ. Expression of RAGE and HMGB1 in thymic epithelial tumors, thymic hyperplasia and regular thymic morphology. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94118. [PMID: 24705787 PMCID: PMC3976415 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, a role of the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) in myasthenia gravis was described. RAGE and its ligand high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) play key roles in autoimmunity and cancer. To test whether these molecules are involved in patients with thymic abnormalities we applied immunohistochemical analysis in 33 cases of thymic epithelial tumors, comprising 27 thymomas and 6 thymic carcinomas, and 21 nonneoplastic thymuses. Both molecules were detected in neoplastic epithelial cells: RAGE staining was most intense in WHO type B2 thymomas and thymic carcinomas (p<0.001). HMGB1 nuclear staining was strongest in A and AB, and gradually less in B1 = B2>B3>thymic carcinoma (p<0.001). Conversely, HMGB1 cytoplasmic staining intensities were as follows: A and AB (none), B1 (strong), B2 (moderate), B3 and thymic carcinoma (weak); (p<0.001). Fetal thymic tissue showed a distinct expression of RAGE and HMGB1 in subcapsular cortical epithelial cells which was found in 50% of myasthenic patients. Furthermore RAGE and HMGB1 were expressed in thymocytes, macrophages, Hassall's corpuscles, thymic medulla, and germinal center cells in myasthenic patients. Immunohistochemistry results were complemented by systemic measurements (immunosorbent assay): serum levels of soluble RAGE were significantly reduced in patients with epithelial tumors (p = 0.008); and in invasive tumors (p = 0.008). Whereas RAGE was equally reduced in thymic hyperplasia and epithelial tumors (p = 0.003), HMGB1 was only elevated in malignancies (p = 0.036). Results were most pronounced in thymic carcinomas. Thus, RAGE and HMGB1 are involved in the (patho-)physiology of thymus, as evidenced by differentiated thymic and systemic expression patterns that may act as diagnostic or therapeutic targets in autoimmune disease and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Moser
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Division of Surgery, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail:
| | - Stefan Janik
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Division of Surgery, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Christine Bekos
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Division of Surgery, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Regeneration of Cardiac and Thoracic Diseases, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anke Scharrer
- Department of Pathology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Mildner
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ferenc Rényi-Vámos
- Department of General and Thoracic Surgery, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Walter Klepetko
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Division of Surgery, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hendrik Jan Ankersmit
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Division of Surgery, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Regeneration of Cardiac and Thoracic Diseases, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Berrih-Aknin S, Ragheb S, Le Panse R, Lisak RP. Ectopic germinal centers, BAFF and anti-B-cell therapy in myasthenia gravis. Autoimmun Rev 2013; 12:885-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2013.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Abstract
For a very long time, we studied the metallophilic macrophages of the rodent thymus and in this review our results on morphological, histochemical, enzymehistochemical, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural and functional features of these cells, as well as the molecular regulation of their development, will be presented. Furthermore, the differences between species will also be discussed and the comparisons with similar/related cell types (metallophilic macrophages in the marginal sinus of the spleen, subcapsular sinus of the lymph nodes and germinal centers of secondary lymphoid follicles) will be made. Metallophilic macrophages are strategically positioned in the thymic cortico-medullary zone and are very likely to be involved in: (i) the metabolism, synthesis and production of bioactive lipids, most likely arachidonic acid metabolites, based on their histochemical and enzymehistochemical features, and (ii) the process of negative selection that occurs in the thymus, based on their ultrastructural features and their reactivity after the application of toxic or immunosuppressive/immunomodulatory agents. Taken together, their phenotypic and functional features strongly suggest that metallophilic macrophages play a significant role in the thymic physiology.
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Calviño J, Adeva M, Sobrido MJ. Membranous nephropathy, leiomyoma and autoimmune myasthenia: more than a coincidence? Clin Kidney J 2012; 5:562-5. [PMID: 26069802 PMCID: PMC4400566 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfs144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) has been associated with several infectious, immunological and malignant conditions, but had only rarely been reported with malignant and other immune disorders in the same patient. We describe the case of a 56-year-old male with MN who was also diagnosed with a gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST), myasthenia gravis (MG) and thymic hyperplasia. Thus, we report here for the first time the coincidence of these conditions in the same patient. There was a recurrence of nephrotic syndrome without impairment of renal function 5 years after removal of the GIST (3 years after thymectomy). The possible basis for the relationship between these diseases is discussed, and some common genetic and immune physiopathological pathways are hypothesized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Calviño
- Department of Nephrology , Hospital Lucus Augusti , Lugo , Spain
| | - Magdalena Adeva
- Department of Nephrology , Hospital Juan Cardona , Ferrol , Spain
| | - Maria-Jesus Sobrido
- Department of Neurogenetics , Fundación Publica Galega de Medicina Xenómica-SERGAS and Centre for Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Institute of Health Carlos III , Santiago Compostela , Spain
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The Molecular Anatomy of Human Hsp60 and its Similarity with that of Bacterial Orthologs and Acetylcholine Receptor Reveal a Potential Pathogenetic Role of Anti-Chaperonin Immunity in Myasthenia Gravis. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2012; 32:943-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s10571-011-9789-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2011] [Accepted: 12/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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18
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Ragheb S, Lisak RP. B-cell-activating factor and autoimmune myasthenia gravis. Autoimmune Dis 2011; 2011:939520. [PMID: 22235365 PMCID: PMC3251912 DOI: 10.4061/2011/939520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BAFF is a potent B-cell survival factor, and it plays an essential role in B-cell homeostasis and B-cell function in the periphery. Both normal and autoreactive B cells are BAFF dependent; however, excess BAFF promotes the survival, growth, and maturation of autoreactive B cells. When overexpressed, BAFF protects B cells from apoptosis, thereby contributing to autoimmunity. Three independent studies have shown higher BAFF levels in the circulation of MG patients. BAFF may play an important role in the pathogenesis of MG. BAFF antagonists may well provide new treatment options for MG patients, particularly those patients with thymic lymphoid follicular hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samia Ragheb
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Hung WL, Lin YH, Wang PY, Chang MH. HIV-associated myasthenia gravis and impacts of HAART: One case report and a brief review. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2011; 113:672-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2011.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2009] [Accepted: 03/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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