A Synthetic Peptide for Use in Diagnosis and Treatment of Myasthenia Gravis

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a peptide that could be used in the diagnosis and treatment of Myasthenia Gravis.

Full Description

Current treatment options for Myasthenia Gravis (MG) include immune suppression, plasmapheresis and the use of acetylcholine-esterase inhibitors. Although effective, these treatments either remedy symptoms over a short term cycle or carry the risks associated with immune suppression.

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a peptide that could be used in the diagnosis and early treatment of MG. This peptide has very high affinity for the pathogenic autoantibodies that target the main immunogenic region of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The peptide can be used to target and eliminate the B-cells that retain the blueprint for the pathogenic autoantibodies. This approach aims to cure the underlying cause of MG. This peptide could be used to screen for pathogenic autoantibodies, which could enable earlier detection of MG or earlier evaluation of MG therapeutic success.

Applications

• Allergies
• Autoimmune disorders
• Competitive inhibitors
• Immune system editing
• Early detection and treatment of Myasthenia Gravis

Features/Benefits

• Auto-antibody specific targeting
• Avoids general immune suppression or invasive surgery

Patent Status