Autoantibodies to Synaptic Receptors and Neuronal Cell Surface Proteins in Autoimmune Diseases of the Central Nervous System

Investigations in the last 10 years have revealed a new category of neurological diseases mediated by antibodies against cell surface and synaptic proteins. There are currently 16 such diseases all characterized by autoantibodies against neuronal proteins involved in synaptic signaling and plasticity. In clinical practice these findings have changed the diagnostic and treatment approach to potentially lethal, but now treatable, neurological and psychiatric syndromes previously considered idiopathic or not even suspected to be immune-mediated. Studies show that patients' antibodies can impair the surface dynamics of the target receptors eliminating them from synapses (e.g., NMDA receptor), block the function of…

• BF
  Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung

  Awards: CRC-TR 166/1 B2, GE 2519/3-1
• ID
  Instituto de Salud Carlos III

  Awards: 15/00377, 14/00203
• NI
  National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

  Award: RO1NS077851