Jpn. J. Infect. Dis., 57, S7-S8, 2004
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Newer Insights into the Aetiology and Pathogenesis
of Myeloperoxidase Associated Autoimmunity
Wilhelm H. Schmitt*
Vth Medical Clinic, University Hospital Mannheim, Heidelberg
University, Mannheim, Germany
*Corresponding author: wilhelm.achmitt@med5.ma.uni-heidelberg.de
SUMMARY: In recent years there have been substantial developments
in the understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of ANCA-associated
vasculitides, including myeloperoxidase (MPO) associated autoimmunity.
This review will describe genetic and environmental factors that
may increase the risk for the disease and will summarise findings
demonstrating that T-cells, B-cells and ANCA themselves are of
pathogenetic significance. Leukocyte gene expression profiles
indicate that the reactivation of granule protein genes contributes
to the pathogenesis of AASV. Finally, data derived from closely
related autoantibodies against proteinase 3 (PR3) suggest anti-idiotypic
antibodies induced by antisense transcripts as potential pathological
agents.