Selective removal of anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies by immunoadsorption with dextran sulphate in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

Article Abstract:

Antibodies are specialized proteins that bind and inactivate foreign particles, but may also attack body tissues and natural factors under abnormal conditions. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a long-term inflammatory disease of connective tissue, is associated with the production of antibodies against double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (dsDNA), the genetic material of the cell. Because anti-dsDNA antibodies may be involved in the pathogenesis of SLE, the removal of these antibodies from the circulation may serve as a treatment for this disease. Plasmapheresis (a procedure of involving the removal and separation of blood components from the body) can be used to remove anti-dsDNA antibodies. However, this procedure is not selective for anti-dsDNA antibodies, and because a plasma substitute may be necessary, viral infections including hepatitis and acquired immune deficiency syndrome may result. Anti-dsDNA antibodies can react with negatively-charged molecules such as dextran sulphate, which is used in the treatment of familial hyperlipidemia (high blood fat levels). Dextran sulphate was shown to be selective, efficient, and safe for removing anti-dsDNA antibodies from the circulation of a SLE patient. Anti-dsDNA antibodies interact with the negatively-charged molecules of dextran sulphate. This method of immunoadsorption with dextran to remove anti-dsDNA antibodies may be used as a treatment for SLE, and also provides information about the disease process. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects, Autoantibodies, Sodium sulfates, Sodium sulfate, Immunoadsorption

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Fasting enhances mucosal antigen specific B cell responses in rheumatoid arthritis

Article Abstract:

Fasting may enhance mucosa derived B cell responsiveness while having no effect on systemic B cell responsiveness in both rheumatoid arthritis patients and healthy volunteers. After a three-day, water-only fast, 7 rheumatoid arthritis patients and 17 healthy volunteers received influenza virus vaccine either orally or by injection. One week later blood samples were analyzed for B lymphocyte response. B lymphocyte response was enhanced in the group receiving the vaccine orally in both arthritis patients and volunteers. The response to injected vaccine was unchanged in both groups.

Rheumatoid arthritis, Fasting, Mucous membrane

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Autologous stem cell transplantation in a case of treatment resistant central nervous system lupus

Article Abstract:

The case of a 16-year-old girl with systemic lupus erythematosus that affected her brain is described. She was successfully treated with a stem cell transplant.

Stem cells, Stem cell transplantation

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