Anti-MAG Neuropathy
Anti-MAG neuropathy is peripheral neuropathy caused by the immune system attacking specific cells that maintain nervous system health. With our company's profound expertise in Anti-MAG neuropathy research, we are well-equipped to offer tailored solutions and comprehensive support to facilitate your research process from Anti-MAG neuropathy therapy development to therapy commercialization.
Overview of Anti-MAG Neuropathy
Anti-MAG neuropathy is an uncommon peripheral neuropathy characterized by the presence of antibodies against myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), a crucial component of the peripheral nervous system. Individuals with anti-MAG neuropathy experience distal sensory loss, tingling sensations, tremors, and poor balance, which can lead to difficulties in walking. As the disease progresses, muscle weakness may also develop. Anti-MAG neuropathy predominantly affects males in their 50s or 60s, with an estimated incidence of about 1 in 100,000.
Fig. 1 The structure of MAG. (Steck, Andreas J., 2021)Pathogenesis of Anti-MAG Neuropathy
Myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) is a glycoprotein that is specific to Schwann cells, responsible for producing myelin in the peripheral nervous system to support nerve cells. Myelin is a vital component of neurons, enabling the efficient transmission of electrical impulses along nerve axons. However, in the case of anti-MAG neuropathy, the immune system generates IgM antibodies in the bloodstream that specifically target and bind to MAG. This binding process interferes with the normal signaling function of MAG, preventing Schwann cells from initiating myelin production. Consequently, peripheral nerve function becomes compromised.
Diagnostics Development of Anti-MAG Neuropathy
Early identification and accurate diagnosis are crucial for effective intervention and management of the anti-MAG neuropathy. The main diagnostic measures include neurological examination, electromyography, serum antibody testing, and biomarker testing.
Neurological Examination
This method involves nerve conduction studies, nerve biopsy and imaging studies to evaluate the structure, electrical conduction and extent of damage to the peripheral nerves.
Electromyography
This test involves the insertion of fine needles into muscles to record their electrical activity, helping to identify abnormal nerve-muscle interactions and assess the involvement of motor nerves.
Serum Antibody Testing
Blood samples are analyzed to identify the presence of specific antibodies, such as anti-MAG antibodies, through techniques like enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or immunoblotting.
Biomarker Testing
Other important biological indicators include elevated cerebrospinal fluid protein and elevated IgM monoclonal levels. Serum or spinal fluid may be drawn for testing.
Therapeutics Development of Anti-MAG Neuropathy
- Targets of Anti-MAG Neuropathy Therapy Development
| Target | Description |
|---|---|
| B Cells and Plasma Cells | B cells and plasma cells are responsible for the production of anti-MAG antibodies. Targeting these cells can be an effective strategy to reduce antibody levels and prevent further damage to the peripheral nerves. For example, rituximab is a monoclonal antibody targeting CD20-positive B cells. By depleting B cells, rituximab reduces the production of anti-MAG antibodies and is one of the most promising drugs for the therapeutics of anti-MAG neuropathy. |
| Immune Modulation | Modulating the immune response is another target of therapeutic development. By regulating the immune system's activity, it is possible to suppress the abnormal immune response that produces anti-MAG antibodies. Immunosuppressive agents, such as Cyclophosphamide, have demonstrated efficacy by dampening the immune response and reducing antibody levels. |
Our Services
Drawing upon our deep expertise in biotechnology and extensive experience in the industry, our company offers all-encompassing solutions for diagnostic and therapeutic research dedicated to anti-MAG neuropathy.
- Anti-MAG Neuropathy Diagnostic Development Services: For rare diseases such as anti-MAG neuropathy, our company offers diagnostic development services. We are committed to assisting you in developing advanced diagnostic tools for anti-MAG neuropathy to ensure accurate detection and promote timely intervention of the disease.
- Anti-MAG Neuropathy Therapeutic Development Services: Our company provides a wide range of services for the development of small molecule drug, cell therapy, gene therapy, therapeutic antibody, therapeutic peptide, and therapeutic protein. We aim to accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutics and interventions for anti-MAG neuropathy.
- Anti-MAG Neuropathy Animal Model Development Service: To support the preclinical research and development of anti-MAG neuropathy therapeutics, we offer animal models development services to facilitate your pharmacokinetics study and drug safety evaluation.
| Antigen Immunity Induction Models | |
|---|---|
| Immunization with MAG or MAG-derived peptides is a commonly employed strategy to induce the production of antibodies against MAG and mimic the autoimmune response seen in Anti-MAG Neuropathy. | |
| Optional Models | Recombinant MAG Protein Immune Induction Models |
| Genetically Engineered Models | |
| Our company leverages state-of-the-art gene knockout technology to create animal models with modified MAG expression or compromised immune regulation. These transgenic animal models serve as powerful tools for investigating the molecular pathways and immune mechanisms underlying disease progression. | |
| Optional Models | MAG Knockout Models |
| Optional Species | Mice, Rats, Others |
If you are interested in our services, please don't hesitate to contact us for more information and a detailed quotation regarding the specific services you require.
References
- Steck, Andreas J. "Anti-MAG neuropathy: from biology to clinical management." Journal of Neuroimmunology 361 (2021): 577725.
- Herrendorff, Ruben, et al. "Selective in vivo removal of pathogenic anti-MAG autoantibodies, an antigen-specific treatment option for anti-MAG neuropathy." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 114.18 (2017): E3689-E3698.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.