Tag

Autoantibodies

All articles tagged with #autoantibodies

science19 hours ago

Genetics shape who survives infections once thought harmless

A Nature News feature explains that inherited immune-system mutations—and, more recently, autoantibodies against interferons—help determine why some people die from microbes that are usually harmless. Researchers have cataloged hundreds of inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) across many genes, with defects like interferon-γ receptor mutations causing severe mycobacterial disease, and autoantibodies linked to severe COVID-19 and other infections. Some mutations can even confer protection against specific pathogens (e.g., CCR5 against HIV). With incomplete penetrance and epigenetic regulation, IEIs can vary by cell type and over a person’s lifetime, prompting genetic screening and targeted therapies to prevent or treat severe infections.

health5 months ago

Failed Long Covid Drug Trial Offers Study Design Insights

A Phase 2 clinical trial of the drug BC 007 for long Covid failed due to poor study design, including unreliable participant selection and outcome measures, highlighting the complexities of researching this diverse condition. Despite the setback, future research is planned with improved methods, and other studies have shown more promising results in specific subgroups, emphasizing the need for precise patient stratification and collaboration with patients in trial design.

health1 year ago

"Early Detection of Multiple Sclerosis Through Blood Test Biomarkers"

Researchers have identified a specific pattern of autoantibodies in the blood that precedes the clinical onset of multiple sclerosis (MS), potentially allowing for early diagnosis and treatment. This discovery could lead to a simple blood test for early detection of MS, paving the way for timely intervention with more effective therapies. The study found that 10% of MS patients displayed a unique set of autoantibodies against both human proteins and common pathogens like the Epstein-Barr Virus years before showing symptoms, and this pattern was 100% predictive of an MS diagnosis.

health2 years ago

The Lingering Impact of Viral Infections on Health

Mounting evidence suggests that the coronavirus can cause autoimmune disorders in some individuals, even separate from the long-term health problems associated with long Covid. Infections with other viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus, have also been linked to autoimmunity. Scientists believe that certain individuals may be more susceptible to developing autoimmune conditions due to a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers. Rigorous studies are needed to conclusively link viruses to autoimmune conditions, but research on Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis has shown a strong association. Treatments targeting viral proteins or using antiviral drugs and vaccination may offer relief for some individuals experiencing autoimmune symptoms.

medical-science-news2 years ago

Autoantibodies against blood clotting protein may determine COVID-19 severity

A study published in Scientific Reports found that autoantibodies against the blood clotting protein ADAMTS13 were observed in nearly one-third of hospitalized COVID-19 patients, indicating a potential role in disease severity. These autoantibodies, along with increased levels of von Willibrand factor (VWF), contributed to a decreased ADAMTS13/VWF ratio, which is associated with COVID-19 severity. The study suggests that measuring ADAMTS13 autoantibody levels could be useful in predicting the severity of COVID-19. Plasma exchange therapy was also found to restore the balance between VWF and ADAMTS13, providing a potential treatment option for severe COVID-19 cases.