METHODS AND AGENTS FOR MODULATING IMMUNE RESPONSE, AND USES THEREOF

摘要

A method of enhancing antigen presentation is disclosed, wherein an antigen is modified by reaction with AGEs or a compound which forms AGEs. The AGEs are formed on or attached to the antigen, at a site which either activates an epitope containing the site of AGE attachment or formation, or which activates a different site in the antigen, a so-called "silent" epitope. This may comprise an actual activation process, a shift in the dominance to a different epitope by reducing recognition of the epitope upon which the AGEs are found or another mechanism. Also included are the antibodies which recognize these epitopes, methods of treatment and use, assay techniques and kits for performing such methods.