Neuromyelitis optica: Changing concepts

Anu Jacob, Marcelo Matiello, Dean M. Wingerchuk, Claudia F. Lucchinetti, Sean J. Pittock, Brian G. Weinshenker

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

95 Scopus citations

Abstract

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO; Devic's disease) and the NMO spectrum disorders are idiopathic inflammatory demyelinating disorders that affect the central nervous system and have a predilection for optic nerves and spinal cord. The identification of NMO-IgG as a disease-specific marker and aquaporin 4 as the target antigen has renewed interest in NMO. Based on current data, we suspect that autoantibodies arising from peripheral B cells bind to aquaporin 4 expressed on astrocyte foot processes on the abluminal surface of microvessels, activate complement and initiate inflammatory demyelination and necrosis. The development of animal models and further analysis of the association of NMO-IgG with disease severity and treatment response will elucidate the pathobiology of NMO.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)126-138
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of neuroimmunology
Volume187
Issue number1-2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2007

Keywords

  • Aquaporin
  • Devic's
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Neuromyelitis optica

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology
  • Neurology
  • Clinical Neurology

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