B cells reappear less mature and more activated after their anti-CD20–mediated depletion in multiple sclerosis
Nitzan Nissimov, Zivar Hajiyeva, Sebastian Torke, Katja Grondey, Wolfgang Brück, Silke Häusser‐Kinzel, Martin S. Weber
Abstract
Significance Anti-CD20–mediated B cell depletion is a highly effective therapy in MS. However, long-term effects of this approach on the immune system are not yet characterized in detail. After cessation of anti-CD20 treatment, B cells reappear immature yet highly activated. In addition, anti-CD20 treatment exerts long-lasting effects on T cells, which may be important for its clinical effect. These findings may help in guiding therapeutic decisions with regard to treatment intervals and follow-up therapies.
Topics & Concepts
CD20Multiple sclerosisImmune systemMedicineImmunologyCancer researchAntigenMultiple Sclerosis Research StudiesImmunotherapy and Immune ResponsesPolyomavirus and related diseases