Mechanism of intravenous immune globulin therapy in antibody-mediated autoimmune diseases
Article Abstract:
Drugs that block the FcRn receptor for immunoglobulin G (IgG) may be beneficial in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Intravenous IgG has often been used to treat autoimmune diseases, although the way it works is not known. Research led to the discovery of the FcRn receptor, which binds IgG. This protects the IgG from being metabolized. If an autoimmune disease is caused by excessive IgG levels, blocking the FcRn receptor would cause more IgG to be metabolized, reducing the excess levels.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1999
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Immunomodulation of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases with intravenous immune globulin
Article Abstract:
The effects of intravenous immune globulin on the immune system is reviewed. Intravenous immune globulin has been used since the 1970s to treat idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, and is also used to treat Guillain-Barre syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, myasthenia gravis, dermatomyositis, Kawasaki syndrome, and graft-versus-host disease.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2001
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High-dose intravenous immune globulin for stiff-person syndrome
Article Abstract:
Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy appears to be effective for treating stiff-person syndrome, according to a study of 16 patients. This syndrome is a central nervous system disease that causes muscle rigidity and spasms.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2001
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