Research: Guillain–Barré syndrome

14 December 2005

An inhibitor of complement activation, APT070 (Mirococept), could be a potential therapy for Guillain–Barré syndrome.

Guillain–Barré syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which, in one form, antibodies recognise structures on motor axons where they form synapses with muscle tissue. The resulting neuromuscular damage causes muscle weakness, leading to paralysis and, rarely, death.

Hugh Willison and colleagues in Glasgow have studied the mechanisms of Guillain–Barré syndrome and variant forms in animal models. Having implicated the complement system – which punches holes in cells targeted by self-reactive antibodies – the group tested the effect of a new inhibitor of complement activation, APT070. The inhibitor had positive effects in vitro and in vivo, leading the group to suggest its suitability for tests in people.

Photo credit: Chris Nurse

External links

• Halstead SK et al. Complement inhibition abrogates nerve terminal injury in Miller Fisher syndrome. Ann Neurol 2005;58(2):203–10.