Jpn. J. Infect. Dis., 57, S5-S6, 2004
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The Influence of Autoantibodies to Myeloperoxidase
on Neutrophil Function and Intracellular Signaling
Julie Williams, Peter Hewins and Caroline Savage*
Division of Immunity and Infection, The Medical School, University
of Birmingham, UK
*Corresponding author: c.o.s.savage@bham.ac.uk
SUMMARY: Autoantibodies to myeloperoxidase (MPO) are associated
with small vessel systemic vasculitis. Interactions of these autoantibodies
with MPO target antigen, FcƒÁ receptors and ƒÀ2 integrins at the
neutrophil surface, can set in train a sequence of intracellular
signal transduction events that culminate with functional responses.
These include a respiratory burst with release of superoxide ions,
degranulation, cytokine release, enhanced adhesion and induction
of an accelerated apoptotic program.