Abstract
Natural autoantibodies, immunoglobulins (Igs) that target self-proteins, are common in the plasma of healthy individuals; some of the autoantibodies play pathogenic roles in systemic or tissue-specific autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Recently, the field of autoantibody-associated diseases has expanded to encompass neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD), with related studies examining the functions of Igs in the central nervous system (CNS). Recent evidence suggests that Igs have various effects in the CNS; these effects are associated with the prevention of neurodegeneration, as well as induction. Here, we summarize the functional roles of Igs with respect to neurodegenerative disease (AD and PD), focusing on the target antigens and effector cell types. In addition, we review the current knowledge about the roles of these antibodies as diagnostic markers and immunotherapies.
Highlights
Antibodies bind to various foreign antigens that enter the circulatory system of both humankind and animals
We summarize the functional roles of Igs in the central nervous system (CNS), focusing on neurodegenerative diseases Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD), as well as their potential utility as diagnostic markers and immunotherapy agents or targets
The increased or decreased risk of AD and PD due to autoimmune mechanisms suggests that autoantibodies produced in those with autoimmune diseases can affect neurodegeneration
Summary
Antibodies bind to various foreign antigens (e.g., bacterial components and products, viruses, protozoa, and fungi) that enter the circulatory system of both humankind and animals. The majority of natural autoantibodies are immunoglobulin (Ig) M class; as such, they are polyreactive and bind several unrelated antigens with different affinities, thereby contributing to homeostasis of the immune system. Newborns share a universal immune profile with respect to the IgM repertoire; by contrast, IgG autoantibody repertories are highly diverse and shared between the mother and newborn. This suggests that IgG signatures change according to personal immune “experience” [6]. We summarize the functional roles of Igs in the CNS, focusing on neurodegenerative diseases AD and PD, as well as their potential utility as diagnostic markers and immunotherapy agents or targets
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