IMMUNOGLOBULINS IN AUTOIMMUNITY - HISTORY AND MECHANISMS OF ACTION

The search for preparations of human gammaglobulin that could be admin istered safely intravenously was driven by the need to better manage i mmune deficiency stares. However, when suitable formulations were deve loped, it was soon realised that large infusions of immunoglobulin cou ld be used to manipulate the immune system. The production of autoanti bodies was minimised or their effects neutralised; T cell effector and regulatory function could be manipulated and cytokine release modifie d. More than fifty human disease states, many until now lacking safe a nd effective therapies, can be improved by the administration of intra venous immunoglobulin. Better understanding of the mechanisms involved will not only improve therapy but will provide a better understanding of the immunopathogenic mechanisms reponsible.