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Multiple Sclerosis, Vol. 13, No. 1 suppl, 28-35 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/1352458507076994

Clinical significance of glatiramer acetate antibodies

F. Blanchette

Medical Liaison, Teva Neuroscience, Canada, francois.blanchette{at}tevapharma.com

Glatiramer acetate is a mixture of synthetic peptides that are cross-reactive with MBP. The antigen-based therapy induces a shift to an anti-inflammatory Th2 bias and is used in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Like other peptide antigens, GA induces an antibody response in all patients. In contrast to biologically active agents, such as the recombinant interferon beta drugs, GA is a peptide antigen that lacks intrinsic biological activity. In vitro and in vivo data have shown that GA-reactive antibodies are not neutralizing. Antibodies do not alter the principal immunological effects of GA, including binding to MHC Class II molecules, activation and proliferation of GA-reactive T cells, and the release of anti-inflammatory Th2 cytokines. Higher antibody titres do not appear to be associated with a deterioration in clinical endpoints, such as relapse rate, EDSS progression or the occurrence of side effects in MS patients treated with GA. The presence of GA-reactive antibodies may promote remyelination and enhance the immunological and clinical effects of GA, indicating that they may be part of GA's mechanism of action. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: S28—S35. http://msj.sagepub.com

Key Words: Glatiramer acetate • GA • Copaxone • antigen or antigen-based therapy • non-neutralizing antibodies • interferon • neutralizing antibodies • therapeutic efficacy


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