Using near-atomic imaging, OHSU researchers mapped where disease-associated autoantibodies bind to the extracellular domain of the NMDA receptor. The highlighted region — colored yellow through red, based on how frequently it is targeted — reveals small areas of the receptor recognized by autoantibodies in both mice and people with anti-NMDAR encephalitis, making it a promising target for future treatments. (OHSU/Christine Torres Hicks)
Scientists have identified a promising target for treatment of a devastating autoimmune disease affecting the brain.
The discovery could lead to the development of new therapies for a disease triggered by an attack on one of the key neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, the NMDA receptor. It also raises the potential for a blood test to detect a signal of the condition…