Because monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against alpha4-integrin and VCAM-1 inhibit the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in vivo, it has been concluded that the successful therapeutic effect is due to interference with alpha4beta1/VCAM-1-mediated interaction of autoaggressive T cells with the blood-brain barrier. A possible role for alpha4beta7-integrin, or interference with other T cell mediated events during the pathogenesis of EAE, has not been considered. We have compared the effects of mAb therapy on the development of EAE in the SJL/N mouse, using a large panel of mAbs directed against alpha4, beta7, the alpha4beta7-heterodimer, and against VCAM-1. Although encephalitogenic T cells express both alpha4-integrins, mAbs directed against the alpha4beta7-heterodimer or against the beta7-subunit did not interfere with the development of EAE. In contrast, mAbs directed against alpha4 and VCAM-1 inhibited or diminished clinical or histopathological signs of EAE. Our data demonstrate for the first time that alpha4beta7 is not essential for the development of EAE. Furthermore, our in vitro studies suggest that the therapeutic effect of anti-alpha4-treatment of EAE might also be caused by inhibition of antigen-specific T cell proliferation.
B Engelhardt, M Laschinger, M Schulz, U Samulowitz, D Vestweber, G Hoch
Usage data is cumulative from May 2024 through May 2025.
Usage | JCI | PMC |
---|---|---|
Text version | 500 | 27 |
58 | 32 | |
Citation downloads | 62 | 0 |
Totals | 620 | 59 |
Total Views | 679 |
Usage information is collected from two different sources: this site (JCI) and Pubmed Central (PMC). JCI information (compiled daily) shows human readership based on methods we employ to screen out robotic usage. PMC information (aggregated monthly) is also similarly screened of robotic usage.
Various methods are used to distinguish robotic usage. For example, Google automatically scans articles to add to its search index and identifies itself as robotic; other services might not clearly identify themselves as robotic, or they are new or unknown as robotic. Because this activity can be misinterpreted as human readership, data may be re-processed periodically to reflect an improved understanding of robotic activity. Because of these factors, readers should consider usage information illustrative but subject to change.