ANTI-CD3 AND ANTIGEN-SPECIFIC IMMUNOTHERAPY TO TREAT AUTOIMMUNITY

摘要

The invention provides methods for treating autoimmunity and for reestablishing tolerance. The methods involve the coadministration of anti-CD3 antibodies and self-antigens. The coadministration has the potential to provide a synergistic effect of protecting or reducing autoaggressive immune processes and/or of reestablishing tolerance towards self-antigens. An underlying rationale behind the methods is that the administration of self-antigens together with anti-CD3 antibodies can alter the response to those self-antigens and prevent progression of autoimmunity. By rechallenging with the autoantigens and stimulating the non-pathogenic response, the blockade of the autoimmune process can be maintained. Preclinical evidence provided herein shows that the combination of anti-CD3 and autoantigen is synergistic in reversing autoimmune diabetes, and therefore, suggests that combination therapy of anti-CD3 and self-antigen may provide synergistic protection in reversing other autoimmune disorders.