Antigen-induced depletions

Yao, C., Bohnet, S. and Jasmer, D.P. (1998) Host nuclear abnormalities and depletion of nuclear antigens induced in Trichinella spiralis-miected muscle cells by the anthelmintic mebendazole. Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology 96, 1-13. 

It has been estimated that 1-2 per cent of the US population suffer from autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, MS and some forms of diabetes. In many instances, an autoimmune response results from the inappropriate activation of a specific subset of B- and/or T-lymphocytes. The most common immunotherapeutic approach to potentially treat such diseases is to induce depletion of the individual s T- and B-cell populations. This could be achieved by administration of an antibody raised against a surface antigen present on such cells. Initial trials, for example, have shown that injection of an (unconjugated) anti-CD4 antibody (cell surface glycoprotein present on many T-lymphocytes) over 7 days significantly reduced the clinical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis for several months. 

Gavett SH, et al. Depletion of murine CD4+ T lymphocytes prevents antigen-induced airway hyperreactivity and pulmonary eosinophiha. Am J Respir CeU Mol Biol 1994 10(6) 587-593. 

Katiyar, S.K. and Mukhtar, H., Green tea polyphenol (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate treatment to mouse skin prevents UVB-induced infiltration of leukocytes, depletion of antigen-presenting cells, and oxidative stress, J Leukoc Biol, 69, 719, 2001. 

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