Antibody Responses in RP

Antibodies are proteins made by the body which can identify and bind to foreign proteins. Antibody responses created by vaccines or past infections protect us from future infections. However, in many autoimmune diseases, antibodies that are directed against proteins in the body are present, and sometimes cause disease. In the past it has been shown that 50-70% of patients with RP make antibodies against type II collagen, the main component of cartilage. We are studying these antibodies in RP patients to identify whether they are present, if these antibodies can be used to aid in diagnosis, and whether these antibodies cause disease.

Recently, we have identified antibodies against another component of cartilage, matrilin, and we are extending that work to other proteins as well. Identifying additional antibodies may explain the source of inflammation in RP. Identifying a panel of autoantibodies specific to RP will aid in diagnosis and prognosis for patients and help the physicians treating them.