[VGKC-complex antibodies]

Brain Nerve. 2013 Apr;65(4):401-11.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

Various antibodies are associated with voltage-gated potassium channels (VGKCs). Representative antibodies to VGKCs were first identified by radioimmunoassays using radioisotope-labeled alpha-dendrotoxin-VGKCs solubilized from rabbit brain. These antibodies were detected only in a proportion of patients with acquired neuromyotonia (Isaacs' syndrome). VGKC antibodies were also detected in patients with Morvan's syndrome and in those with a form of autoimmune limbic encephalitis. Recent studies indicated that the "VGKC" antibodies are mainly directed toward associated proteins (for example LGI-1 and CASPR-2) that complex with the VGKCs themselves. The "VGKC" antibodies are now commonly known as VGKC-complex antibodies. In general, LGI-1 antibodies are most commonly detected in patients with limbic encephalitis with syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone. CASPR-2 antibodies are present in the majority of patients with Morvan's syndrome. These patients develop combinations of CNS symptoms, autonomic dysfunction, and peripheral nerve hyperexcitability. Furthermore, VGKC-complex antibodies are tightly associated with chronic idiopathic pain. Hyperexcitability of nociceptive pathways has also been implicated. These antibodies may be detected in sera of some patients with neurodegenerative diseases (for example, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease).

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies / immunology*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / diagnosis
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology
  • Humans
  • Isaacs Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Isaacs Syndrome / immunology
  • Limbic Encephalitis / diagnosis
  • Limbic Encephalitis / immunology
  • Potassium Channels, Voltage-Gated / immunology*
  • Syringomyelia / diagnosis
  • Syringomyelia / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Potassium Channels, Voltage-Gated

Supplementary concepts

  • Autoimmune limbic encephalitis