Pathophysiological importance of antineutrophil antibodies in vasculitis

Basu, N. and Erwig, L.-P. (2011) Pathophysiological importance of antineutrophil antibodies in vasculitis. Current Opinion in Hematology, 18(1), pp. 25-29. (doi: 10.1097/MOH.0b013e328340dc2a) (PMID:20975556) (PMCID:PMC3242048)

Abstract

Purpose of review: We endeavour to provide a brief overview of the recent advances in understanding of how antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) contribute to the pathophysiology of vasculitis. Recent findings: Substantial progress has been made in our understanding of the immunopathogenesis of ANCA-associated vasculitides. Compelling evidence from in-vitro studies and experimental models in conjunction with clinical trials has confirmed that ANCAs directly contribute to the evolution and progression of the disease process. A new ANCA, directed against human lysosome membrane protein-2 (LAMP-2), has recently been described as a sensitive and specific marker for renal vasculitis and we discuss its potential impact for diagnosis and therapy. Furthermore, high-throughput approaches are starting to identify genetic patterns that may identify patients likely to respond to specific therapy or having a high probability of relapse. Summary: It has become increasingly clear over the last two decades that ANCA IgG is pathogenic in vasculitis. Novel therapies aimed at selected cell populations or blocking specific pathogenic pathways offer hope for more selectively treating this heterogeneous group of patients, while avoiding nonspecific immunosuppression and its adverse effects.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: L.P.E. is a Scottish Senior Clinical Fellow and acknowledges support by the Wellcome Trust; N.B. is funded by the Chief Scientist Office.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Basu, Professor Neil
• Authors: Basu, N., and Erwig, L.-P.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
• Journal Name: Current Opinion in Hematology
• Publisher: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins
• ISSN: 1065-6251
• ISSN (Online): 1531-7048