Age-associated B cells as therapeutic targets in MS (R-9576)

B cells are important players in multiple sclerosis (MS) pathology and are targets of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies that are used for MS treatment with a high efficacy. However, this B cell depletion therapy is associated with risks due to the long-term immune exhaustion. This urges for a more specific and personalized treatment. Age-associated B cells (ABCs) with pro-inflammatory characteristics are expanded during immune aging and in a proportion of MS patients. Here, we aim to identify druggable targets specific for ABCs in MS patients. Transcriptome analysis is used to identify ABC-specific targets/pathways in MS patients which are then validated using in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches.

Keywords:B-cells, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Disciplines:Autoimmunity, Musculo-skeletal systems, Biomarker evaluation, Developmental neuroscience