“Myasthenia gravis (MG), an antibody-mediated autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction, is characterized by muscle weakness and fatigability and is caused by autoantibodies against muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR). The anti-AChR antibody is produced by T cell-dependent and B cell-mediated pathogenic mechanisms, activates the complement system and leads to inflammation of the postsynaptic muscle membrane.” (Uzawa)

“In this study, we have shown the following significant changes in some serum cytokine levels in the anti-AChR antibody-positive patients with MG compared with those in NC, increased IL-15 and VEGF levels and decreased IL-4 levels in all MG patients, as well as increased IL-8, eotaxin, MIP-1α, MIP-1β and IL-1b levels in MG patients with thymoma.” (Uzawa)

Uzawa A, et al . Serum cytokine and chemokine profiles in patients with myasthenia gravis. Clin Exp Immunol. 2014 May;176(2):232-7. Free Full Text