Autoimmune Medical News for February 2007

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February 2007

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is associated with and not secondary to systemic sclerosis (SSc). SS associated with SSc has the same features as pSS, but SSc seems to be less serious. Moreover, the association of SS and SSc is frequently accompanied by a spreading of autoimmunity. Rheumatology. Vol 46, Number 2. Pp. 321-326. Feb 07. (Also see: Sjogren's Syndrome )

Researchers study the possible relationship between myopathies and celiac disease. The scientists are considering the possibility that, at least in part, some inflammatory myopathies are a clinical expression of intolerance to gluten, though they point out the need for more studies to be carried out to confirm or support these findings. innovations report. 02/23/07. (Also see: Celiac Disease, Bowel Dysfunction, and Dermatomyositis and Polymyositis )

Scientists Learn The Origin Of Rogue B Cells. Researchers have provided some new clues into one likely factor for the immune system turning against parts of the body it is designed to protect, leading to autoimmune disease: the early development of immune system cells called B cells. Medical News Today. 02/11/07. (Also see: Causes of Scleroderma: B Cells and T Cells )

Saving Your Self From Yourself. Being able to better tune the body's defenses offers the possibility of a wide range of novel therapies to treat diseases like arthritis and diabetes, to combat transplant rejection, and, perhaps, to fight cancer. In autoimmune diseases, T cells attack the self, rather than the non-self. Harvard University Gazette. 02/08/07. (Also see: Causes of Scleroderma: B Cells and T Cells and Natural Killer Cells )

Insulin-like Growth Receptors (IGF-1R) implicated in the pathogenesis of Grave's Disease. Investigators have found evidence that continues to implicate insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R) in the development of Graves’ disease. The discovery of these mechanisms in a similar class of autoimmune diseases supports the belief that a single biological mechanism is activating a variety of autoimmune diseases. RxPG News. 02/16/07. (Also see: Grave's Disease )

Discovery May Lead to Novel Treatments for Autoimmune and Chronic Inflammatory Diseases. For years, doctors have used IVIG to treat patients with autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases, but just how the therapy works has remained a mystery. Some researchers have shown that IVIG works, in part, by activating a receptor known as FcγRIIb, which then suppresses auto-antibody-mediated inflammation. Newswise. 01/26/07. (Also see: Clinical Trials: Positive Results: IVIG, Medications, Dermatomyositis, and Myasthenia Gravis )

Joslin-led study uncovers role of appetite hormone MCH in insulin production. Findings may lead to treatments that stimulate insulin production. A new Joslin Diabetes Center-led study has shown conclusively that a neuropeptide, melanin concentrating hormone (MCH), found in the brain and known for its role in increasing appetite in people, plays a role in the growth of insulin-producing beta cells and the secretion of insulin. EurekAlert! 01/25/07. (Also see: Diabetes )