Does deficient phosphorylation of Stat1 in leukocytes identify neutralizing antibodies in multiple sclerosis patients treated with interferon-beta?
Based on this proof of concept study, we hypothesize that NAb effects can be monitored by evaluation of a single biomarker, pStat1, in either monocytes or T cells by phosphoflow directly after IFN-β administration. The method will significantly reduce cost relative to labor intensive in vitro methods and offers a patient-specific approach to NAb evaluation.
This model permits investigations on the sequence of crucial inflammatory processes set off by cutaneous injury, which are presumed to play a role within the pathogenesis of immune-mediated skin diseases exhibiting the Koebner phenomenon.