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Newsome SD, Johnson T. Stiff person syndrome spectrum disorders; more than meets the eye. J Neuroimmunol 2022; 369:577915. [PMID: 35717735 PMCID: PMC9274902 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2022.577915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Stiff person syndrome spectrum disorders (SPSD) are a group of rare neuroimmunological disorders that often include painful spasms and rigidity. However, patients have highly heterogeneous signs and symptoms which may reflect different mechanistic disease processes. Understanding subsets of patients based on clinical phenotype may be important for prognosis and guiding treatment. The goal of this review is to provide updates on SPSD and its expanding clinical spectrum, prognostic markers, and treatment considerations. Further, we describe the current understanding in immunopathogenesis and highlight gaps in our knowledge appropriate for future research directions. Examples of revised diagnostic criteria for SPSD based on phenotype are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Newsome
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Tory Johnson
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Section of Infections of the Nervous System, NINDS, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Stathopoulos P, Dalakas MC. Evolution of Anti-B Cell Therapeutics in Autoimmune Neurological Diseases. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:691-710. [PMID: 35182380 PMCID: PMC9294112 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01196-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
B cells have an ever-increasing role in the etiopathology of a number of autoimmune neurological disorders, acting as antigen-presenting cells facilitating antibody production but also as sensors, coordinators, and regulators of the immune response. In particular, B cells can regulate the T cell activation process through their participation in antigen presentation, production of proinflammatory cytokines (bystander activation or suppression), and contribution to ectopic lymphoid aggregates. Such an important interplay between B and T cells makes therapeutic depletion of B cells an attractive treatment strategy. The last decade, anti-B cell therapies using monoclonal antibodies against B cell surface molecules have evolved into a rational approach for successfully treating autoimmune neurological disorders, even when T cells seem to be the main effector cells. The paper summarizes basic aspects of B cell biology, discusses the roles of B cells in neurological autoimmunities, and highlights how the currently available or under development anti-B cell therapeutics exert their action in the wide spectrum and immunologically diverse neurological disorders. The efficacy of the various anti-B cell therapies and practical issues on induction and maintenance therapy is specifically detailed for the treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis-spectrum disorders, autoimmune encephalitis and hyperexcitability CNS disorders, autoimmune neuropathies, myasthenia gravis, and inflammatory myopathies. The success of anti-B cell therapies in inducing long-term remission in IgG4 neuroautoimmunities is also highlighted pointing out potential biomarkers for follow-up infusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panos Stathopoulos
- 1st Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Marinos C Dalakas
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Neuroimmunology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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Aljarallah S, Newsome SD. Use of subcutaneous immunoglobulin in stiff person syndrome: Case series. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e25260. [PMID: 33761724 PMCID: PMC9281948 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000025260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been shown to be effective for the treatment of stiff person syndrome (SPS). However, some patients might not tolerate it. We report the tolerability profile of subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) in patients with SPS who did not tolerate IVIG. To our knowledge, the use of SCIg in SPS has not been reported before in a case series. PATIENT CONCERNS The five patients included in this case series presented with various combinations of symptoms of spasms, axial and limb stiffness, and exaggerated responses to outside stimuli. These symptoms often lead to gait and functional impairment. DIAGNOSIS Patients were diagnosed with classic SPS as they met the clinical criteria, which require the presence of spasms, axial rigidity, and hyperexcitability. INTERVENTIONS Subcutaneous immunoglobulin infusion. OUTCOMES Five patients were identified that were treated with SCIg. Three tested positive for serum anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 antibodies prior to any treatment. The mean age at SCIg initiation was 33 years (range: 22-47). The mean duration of SPS prior to SCIg initiation was 5.9 years (range: 2.5-7). All patients used IVIG for at least two months (up to 18 months) but switched to SCIg due to IVIG side effects. Duration of SCIg use ranged from 4 months to 6 years (mean, 19.2 months). Upon switching to SCIg, the SPS symptoms remained stable. SCIg was well-tolerated in most as only one patient discontinued SCIg due to side effects. CONCLUSION This case series highlights that SCIg could be a treatment option for patients with SPS, especially when IVIG is not feasible. Injection site reactions might be a limiting factor in some patients treated with SCIg. Prospective controlled studies are needed to confirm SCIg treatment durability and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott D. Newsome
- Johns Hopkins Hospital, Stiff Person Syndrome Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Thaler FS, Bangol B, Biljecki M, Havla J, Schumacher AM, Kümpfel T. Possible link of genetic variants to autoimmunity in GAD-antibody-associated neurological disorders. J Neurol Sci 2020; 413:116860. [PMID: 32388243 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.116860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In patients with GAD-antibody (ab) associated neurological disorders coexistence of other autoimmune disorders is observed. METHODS In this exploratory study we analysed variations in 33 candidate genes involved in autoimmunity or representing immunological check-points using next-generation sequencing. We performed haplotype-analysis of HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1. Additionally, we analysed levels of sFasL, IL10, and IL18 in serum of patients and healthy controls. RESULTS 19 patients (3 males, 16 females; mean age at onset: 46.4 years) with positive GAD-ab and the following neurological phenotypes were included: n = 8 cerebellar ataxia, n = 6 limbic encephalitis, n = 4 stiff person syndrome, n = 1 demyelinating CNS disease with recurrent optic neuritis. 15 patients exhibited at least one other autoimmune disorder and/or showed other auto-ab. We identified several variations in genes linked to autoimmunity or representing check-point proteins. Most frequently (14/19 patients, allele frequency: 42.1%), we observed an amino acid exchange in the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4) gene. Two of the observed variants are known to cause alterations of protein function (Y446C in caspase-10, K750N in protein-tyrosin-phosphatase, non-receptor type 22). These latter variants were detected in two related patients (mother and daughter) who both present with GAD-ab-associated neurological disorders but with different clinical phenotypes. The rare haplotype DRB1*15:01:01 ~ DQA1*01:02:01 ~ DQB1*05:02:01 previously described in patients with GAD-ab-associated neurological disorders was not observed in any of our patients. No elevated serum levels of sFasL, IL18 or IL10 were observed in patients indicating no typical phenotype of autoimmune lymphoproliferate syndrome. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest genetic risk factors in patients with GAD-ab-associated neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska S Thaler
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Barbara Bangol
- Center for Human Genetics and Laboratory Diagnostics, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Michelle Biljecki
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Joachim Havla
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Adrian-Minh Schumacher
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tania Kümpfel
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
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El-Abassi R, Soliman MY, Villemarette-Pittman N, England JD. SPS: Understanding the complexity. J Neurol Sci 2019; 404:137-149. [PMID: 31377632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2019.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stiff-person syndrome (SPS), first described in 1956 by Moersch and Woltman, is a progressive autoimmune disorder with core features of chronic fluctuating progressive truncal and limb rigidity and painful muscle spasms leading to gait difficulties, falls and an appearance that resembles tin soldiers. The syndrome is a rare, highly disabling disorder of the central nervous and frequently results in significant disability. Understanding of the etiology, clinical spectrum, diagnostic workup and therapeutic modalities for this painful and disabling disorder has vastly evolved over the past few years with more confidence in classifying and treating the patients. The purpose of this review is to increase the awareness, early detection, and treatment of this disabling disease. METHOD PubMed was searched, all date inclusive, using the following phrases: stiff person syndrome,anti-Glutamic acid decarboxylase (Anti-GAD) antibody syndrome, Progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus (PERM), and Paraneoplastic Stiff Person syndrome. No filters or restrictions were used. A total of 888 articles were identified. RESULTS The results were narrowed to 190 citations after excluding non-English and duplicate reports. Clinical presentation, laboratory testing, treatment, and prognosis were categorized and summarized. DISCUSSION In this article we will discuss the epidemiology, presentation and classification. Explain the pathophysiology of SPS and the autoimmune mechanisms involved. Discuss the diagnostic approach and treatments available, as well as, the prognosis and outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima El-Abassi
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University School of medicine, New Orleans, USA.
| | - Michael Y Soliman
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University School of medicine, New Orleans, USA
| | | | - John D England
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University School of medicine, New Orleans, USA
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Thaler FS, Thaller AL, Biljecki M, Schuh E, Winklmeier S, Mahler CF, Gerhards R, Völk S, Schnorfeil F, Subklewe M, Hohlfeld R, Kümpfel T, Meinl E. Abundant glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD)-reactive B cells in gad-antibody-associated neurological disorders. Ann Neurol 2019; 85:448-454. [PMID: 30635933 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
High levels of antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) are observed in patients with different neurological disorders, but cells producing these autoantibodies are largely unexplored. We detect circulating GAD-reactive B cells in peripheral blood that readily differentiate into antibody-producing cells. These cells are highly elevated in most patients with GAD-antibody-associated disorders (n = 15) compared to controls (n = 19). They mainly produce GAD65 antibodies of the IgG1 and IgG4 subclasses and are as abundant as B cells reactive for common recall antigens. Bone marrow cells represent an additional source of GAD antibodies. The identification of GAD-antibody-producing cells has implications for the selection of cell-specific biologics. ANN NEUROL 2019;85:448-454.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska S Thaler
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna L Thaller
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michelle Biljecki
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Schuh
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephan Winklmeier
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph F Mahler
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ramona Gerhards
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie Völk
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Frauke Schnorfeil
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marion Subklewe
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Reinhard Hohlfeld
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Tania Kümpfel
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Edgar Meinl
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
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7
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Fulminant Anti-GAD antibody encephalitis presenting with status epilepticus requiring aggressive immunosuppression. J Neuroimmunol 2018; 323:119-124. [PMID: 30196824 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2018.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) are reported in association with numerous neurological conditions including temporal lobe epilepsy and limbic encephalitis. We report a case of Anti-GAD-Antibody associated encephalitis presenting with epilepsia partialis continua (EPC) progressing to a fulminant encephalopathy preferentially affecting the frontal lobes associated with coma and refractory status epilepticus. The abnormalities identified on MRI included marked bilateral frontal lobe involvement which has not been reported in other auto-immune encephalitides and may be specific for Anti-GAD-Antibody associated encephalitis. Similar to the majority of cases of Anti-GAD associated neurological disturbance no underlying malignancy was identified. Treatment with high dose corticosteriods, IVIG and plasmapheresis had minimal response, but escalation of treatment with rituximab and cyclophosphamide was associated with clinical improvement, reducing antibody titers and resolution of MRI changes.
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Dalakas MC, Rakocevic G, Dambrosia JM, Alexopoulos H, McElroy B. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of rituximab in patients with stiff person syndrome. Ann Neurol 2017; 82:271-277. [PMID: 28749549 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In stiff person syndrome (SPS), an antibody-mediated impaired γ-aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) neurotransmission is believed to cause muscle stiffness and spasms. Most patients improve with GABA-enhancing drugs and intravenous immunoglobulin, but some respond poorly and remain disabled. The need for more effective therapy prompted a trial with the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab. METHODS This was a placebo-controlled randomized trial of rituximab (2 biweekly infusions of 1g each). The primary outcome was a change in stiffness scores at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were changes in heightened-sensitivity and quality of life scores. Enrolling 24 patients was calculated to detect 50% change in stiffness scores. RESULTS Randomization was balanced for age, sex, disease duration, and glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibody titers. No significant changes were noted at 6 months after treatment in all outcomes. Specifically, no differences were noted in the stiffness index, the primary outcome, or sensitivity scores, the secondary outcome, at 3 or 6 months. Quality of life scores improved significantly (p < 0.01) at 3 months in both groups, but not at 6 months, denoting an early placebo effect. Blinded self-assessment rating of the overall stiffness for individual patients revealed improvement in 4 patients in each group. At 6 months, improvement persisted in 1 patient in the placebo group versus 3 of 4 in the rituximab group, where these meaningful improvements were also captured by video recordings. INTERPRETATION This is the largest controlled trial conducted in SPS patients and demonstrates no statistically significant difference in the efficacy measures between rituximab and placebo. Rituximab's lack of efficacy could be due to a considerable placebo effect; insensitivity of scales to quantify stiffness, especially in the less severely affected patients; or drug effectiveness in only a small patient subset. Ann Neurol 2017;82:271-277.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinos C Dalakas
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA.,Neuroimmunology Unit, Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Goran Rakocevic
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - James M Dambrosia
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD (retired)
| | - Harry Alexopoulos
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Beverly McElroy
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD (retired)
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Stiff person syndrome is a neurologic disorder characterized by axial rigidity leading to progressive disability, with broad clinical spectrum. METHODS We report 2 cases with unique clinical presentation. RESULTS Two young men suffered progressive urinary retention requiring bladder catheterization, anorectal spasms and constipation, complicated subsequently with lower extremity trigger-induced spasms, and gait instability. Associated symptoms revealed brainstem involvement (vertigo, diplopia, and cranial neuropathies) and dysautonomia (abnormal sweating and orthostatic hypotension). Anal manometry demonstrated incomplete relaxation of the anal sphincter. The first case was associated with diabetes mellitus type I, did not respond to classical therapies, but was responsive to rituximab. The second case responded to intravenous immunoglobulin infusions. Paraneoplastic profiles were negative, and anti-GAD65 antibody titers remained elevated despite successful therapeutic responses. CONCLUSIONS We want to raise awareness that stiff person syndrome can present with esophageal, anorectal, and urethral sphincter disturbance. Rituximab is a good therapeutic option in intractable cases.
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Nauen DW. Extra-central nervous system target for assessment and treatment in refractory anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis. J Crit Care 2016; 37:234-236. [PMID: 27720246 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2016.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate-type glutamate receptor autoimmune encephalitis can arise in the setting of ovarian teratoma and often responds to resection. When it occurs in the absence of tumor, failure to respond to treatment may be more likely, and affected patients often require intensive care. To further understand the mechanisms and potential management, we present findings from an autopsy conducted on a young woman who died of refractory autoimmune encephalitis of this type. Rituximab was administered 70 days before death, and both 37 and 14 days before death, CD19+ lymphocytes were only 0.1% of blood cells. Ten sessions of plasmapheresis were performed after rituximab treatment. Nonetheless, the autoantibodies were present in serum 4 days before death, demonstrating ongoing antibody production. The hippocampus and medial temporal lobe demonstrated inflammation with T cell and prominent microglial involvement, but no plasma cells or plasmablasts were found there, or anywhere in the brain, despite an extensive search. Examination of lymph node tissue identified many plasma cells along sinusoids. These findings demonstrate that the antibody-producing cells are long-lived and can reside in lymphoid tissue. Awareness of continuing antibody production, the extra-central nervous system site, the indication for cytotoxic therapy, and the potential for biopsy assessment may lead to more effective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Nauen
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Ross 512, 720 Rutland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205.
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Alexopoulos H, Biba A, Dalakas MC. Anti-B-Cell Therapies in Autoimmune Neurological Diseases: Rationale and Efficacy Trials. Neurotherapeutics 2016; 13:20-33. [PMID: 26566961 PMCID: PMC4720683 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0402-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
B cells have an ever-increasing role in the etiopathology of a number of autoimmune neurological disorders, acting as antibody-producing cells and, most importantly, as sensors, coordinators, and regulators of the immune response. B cells, among other functions, regulate the T-cell activation process through their participation in antigen presentation and production of cytokines. The availability of monoclonal antibodies or fusion proteins against B-cell surface molecules or B-cell trophic factors bestows a rational approach for treating autoimmune neurological disorders, even when T cells are the main effector cells. This review summarizes basic aspects of B-cell biology, discusses the role(s) of B cells in neurological autoimmunity, and presents anti-B-cell drugs that are either currently on the market or are expected to be available in the near future for treating neurological autoimmune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry Alexopoulos
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Angie Biba
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Marinos C Dalakas
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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13
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Baizabal-Carvallo JF, Jankovic J. Stiff-person syndrome: insights into a complex autoimmune disorder. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2015; 86:840-8. [PMID: 25511790 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2014-309201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is characterised by progressive rigidity and muscle spasms affecting the axial and limb muscles. Since its initial description in 1956, marked progress has been made in the clinical characterisation, understanding of pathogenesis and therapy of this disorder. SPS can be classified according to the clinical presentation into classic SPS and SPS variants: focal or segmental-SPS, jerking-SPS and progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus. Most patients with SPS have antibodies directed against the glutamic acid decarboxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme for the production of the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Antibodies directed against GABA(A) receptor-associated protein, and the glycine-α1 receptor can also be observed. Paraneoplastic SPS is commonly associated with antiamphiphysin antibodies and breast cancer. Treatment of SPS with drugs that increase the GABAergic tone combined with immunotherapy can improve the neurological manifestations of these patients. The prognosis, however, is unpredictable and spontaneous remissions are unlikely.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Fidel Baizabal-Carvallo
- Department of Neurology, Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Joseph Jankovic
- Department of Neurology, Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Alexopoulos H, Dalakas MC. Immunology of stiff person syndrome and other GAD-associated neurological disorders. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2014; 9:1043-53. [DOI: 10.1586/1744666x.2013.845527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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15
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Pieper K, Grimbacher B, Eibel H. B-cell biology and development. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2013; 131:959-71. [PMID: 23465663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2013.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 300] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
B cells develop from hematopoietic precursor cells in an ordered maturation and selection process. Extensive studies with many different mouse mutants provided fundamental insights into this process. However, the characterization of genetic defects causing primary immunodeficiencies was essential in understanding human B-cell biology. Defects in pre-B-cell receptor components or in downstream signaling proteins, such as Bruton tyrosine kinase and B-cell linker protein, arrest development at the pre-B-cell stage. Defects in survival-regulating proteins, such as B-cell activator of the TNF-α family receptor (BAFF-R) or caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 11 (CARD11), interrupt maturation and prevent differentiation of transitional B cells into marginal zone and follicular B cells. Mature B-cell subsets, immune responses, and memory B-cell and plasma cell development are disturbed by mutations affecting Toll-like receptor signaling, B-cell antigen receptor coreceptors (eg, CD19), or enzymes responsible for immunoglobulin class-switch recombination. Transgenic mouse models helped to identify key regulatory mechanisms, such as receptor editing and clonal anergy, preventing the activation of B cells expressing antibodies recognizing autoantigens. Nevertheless, the combination of susceptible genetic backgrounds with the rescue of self-reactive B cells by T cells allows the generation of autoreactive clones found in patients with many autoimmune diseases and even in those with primary immunodeficiencies. The rapid progress of functional genomic research is expected to foster the development of new tools that specifically target dysfunctional B lymphocytes to treat autoimmunity, B-cell malignancies, and immunodeficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Pieper
- Centre of Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Medical Centre Freiburg, Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, Freiburg, Germany
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Rakocevic G, Floeter MK. Autoimmune stiff person syndrome and related myelopathies: understanding of electrophysiological and immunological processes. Muscle Nerve 2012; 45:623-34. [PMID: 22499087 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a disabling autoimmune central nervous system disorder characterized by progressive muscle rigidity and gait impairment with superimposed painful spasms that involve axial and limb musculature, triggered by heightened sensitivity to external stimuli. Impaired synaptic GABAergic inhibition resulting from intrathecal B-cell-mediated clonal synthesis of autoantibodies against various presynaptic and synaptic proteins in the inhibitory neurons of the brain and spinal cord is believed to be an underlying pathogenic mechanism. SPS is most often idiopathic, but it can occur as a paraneoplastic condition. Despite evidence that anti-GAD and related autoantibodies impair GABA synthesis, the exact pathogenic mechanism of SPS is not fully elucidated. The strong association with several MHC-II alleles and improvement of symptoms with immune-modulating therapies support an autoimmune etiology of SPS. In this review, we discuss the clinical spectrum, neurophysiological mechanisms, and therapeutic options, including a rationale for agents that modulate B-cell function in SPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Rakocevic
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, 900 Walnut Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA.
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Sevy A, Franques J, Chiche L, Pouget J, Attarian S. [Successful treatment with rituximab in a refractory Stiff-person syndrome]. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2012; 168:375-8. [PMID: 22340864 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2011.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2011] [Revised: 09/19/2011] [Accepted: 09/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Stiff person syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by axial and limb progressive stiffness with surimposed spasms and production of autoantibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD). We report a case of a 50-year-old woman who developed a stiff person syndrome resistant to conventional immunosuppressive treatments. Eight months after treatment, indexes of stiffness and spasm frequency improved, while however, the blood and CSF rates of anti-GAD increased. This observation illustrates the complexity of stiff person syndrome immunopathogenesis as well as the relevance of rituximab in this indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Sevy
- Centre de référence des maladies neuromusculaires et de la SLA, centre hospitalier universitaire de La Timone, 264, rue Saint-Pierre, 13005 Marseille, France.
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von Geldern G, McPharlin T, Becker K. Immune mediated diseases and immune modulation in the neurocritical care unit. Neurotherapeutics 2012; 9:99-123. [PMID: 22161307 PMCID: PMC3271148 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-011-0096-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This chapter will review the spectrum of immune-mediated diseases that affect the nervous system and may result in an admission to the neurological intensive care unit. Immunomodulatory strategies to treat acute exacerbations of neurological diseases caused by aberrant immune responses are discussed, but strategies for long-term immunosuppression are not presented. The recommendations for therapeutic intervention are based on a synthesis of the literature, and include recommendations by the Cochrane Collaborative, the American Academy of Neurology, and other key organizations. References from recent publications are provided for the disorders and therapies in which randomized clinical trials and large evidenced-based reviews do not exist. The chapter concludes with a brief review of the mechanisms of action, dosing, and side effects of commonly used immunosuppressive strategies in the neurocritical care unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria von Geldern
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Thomas McPharlin
- University of Washington School of Pharmacy, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
| | - Kyra Becker
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
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Benefit from B-lymphocyte depletion using the anti-CD20 antibody rituximab in chronic fatigue syndrome. A double-blind and placebo-controlled study. PLoS One 2011; 6:e26358. [PMID: 22039471 PMCID: PMC3198463 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0026358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2011] [Accepted: 09/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disease of unknown aetiology. Major CFS symptom relief during cancer chemotherapy in a patient with synchronous CFS and lymphoma spurred a pilot study of B-lymphocyte depletion using the anti-CD20 antibody Rituximab, which demonstrated significant clinical response in three CFS patients. Methods and Findings In this double-blind, placebo-controlled phase II study (NCT00848692), 30 CFS patients were randomised to either Rituximab 500 mg/m2 or saline, given twice two weeks apart, with follow-up for 12 months. Xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus (XMRV) was not detected in any of the patients. The responses generally affected all CFS symptoms. Major or moderate overall response, defined as lasting improvements in self-reported Fatigue score during follow-up, was seen in 10 out of 15 patients (67%) in the Rituximab group and in two out of 15 patients (13%) in the Placebo group (p = 0.003). Mean response duration within the follow-up period for the 10 responders to Rituximab was 25 weeks (range 8–44). Four Rituximab patients had clinical response durations past the study period. General linear models for repeated measures of Fatigue scores during follow-up showed a significant interaction between time and intervention group (p = 0.018 for self-reported, and p = 0.024 for physician-assessed), with differences between the Rituximab and Placebo groups between 6–10 months after intervention. The primary end-point, defined as effect on self-reported Fatigue score 3 months after intervention, was negative. There were no serious adverse events. Two patients in the Rituximab group with pre-existing psoriasis experienced moderate psoriasis worsening. Conclusion The delayed responses starting from 2–7 months after Rituximab treatment, in spite of rapid B-cell depletion, suggests that CFS is an autoimmune disease and may be consistent with the gradual elimination of autoantibodies preceding clinical responses. The present findings will impact future research efforts in CFS. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00848692
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Ali F, Rowley M, Jayakrishnan B, Teuber S, Gershwin ME, Mackay IR. Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) and anti-GAD-related CNS degenerations: protean additions to the autoimmune central neuropathies. J Autoimmun 2011; 37:79-87. [PMID: 21680149 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2011.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2011] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a rare autoimmune neurological disease attributable to autoantibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD) more usually associated with the islet beta cell destruction of autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D). SPS is characterized by interference in neurons with the synthesis/activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) resulting in the prototypic progressive spasmodic muscular rigidity of SPS, or diverse neurological syndromes, cerebellar ataxia, intractable epilepsy, myoclonus and several others. Remarkably, a single autoantibody, anti-GAD, can be common to widely different disease expressions, i.e. T1D and SPS. One explanation for these data is the differences in epitope engagement between the anti-GAD reactivity in SPS and T1D: in both diseases, anti-GAD antibody reactivity is predominantly to a conformational epitope region in the PLP- and C-terminal domains of the 65 kDa isoform but, additionally in SPS, there is reactivity to conformational epitope(s) on GAD67, and short linear epitopes in the C-terminal region and at the N-terminus of GAD65. Another explanation for disease expressions in SPS includes ready access of anti-GAD to antigen sites due to immune responsiveness within the CNS itself according to intrathecal anti-GAD-specific B cells and autoantibody. Closer study of the mysterious stiff-person syndrome should enhance the understanding of this disease itself, and autoimmunity in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Ali
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
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Matà S, Muscas GC, Cincotta M, Bartolozzi ML, Ambrosini S, Sorbi S. GAD antibodies associated neurological disorders: incidence and phenotype distribution among neurological inflammatory diseases. J Neuroimmunol 2010; 227:175-7. [PMID: 20696484 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2010.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 07/05/2010] [Accepted: 07/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the prevalence and the clinical association of high titer of antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (hGADAb) among unselected patients with inflammatory/autoimmune disorders of the nervous system. By indirect immunofluorescence examination of samples from 1435 patients, we identified 7 cases (0.48%) with hGADAb. Although stiff-person plus syndrome was the commonest clinical accompaniment, most of the patients presented with a combination of different symptoms, including psychiatric disturbances and intestinal motility disorders. Diagnosis delay and chronic evolution were common findings. In two cases persistently high values of hGADAb over the years were observed. The rarity and the phenotype heterogeneity of hGADAb clinical association should not discourage clinicians from antibody screening, at least in selected cases, as an early immunotherapy can change the otherwise chronic progression of this complex disorder spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Matà
- Department of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Careggi, Florence, Italy.
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