In autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), the balance between regulatory mechanisms and misguided immune cells attacking the body is often shifted in favour of auto-reactive cells. Manipulating the immune response to restore this balance and enhance regulatory functions is therefore a central paradigm in the search for MS therapies. We identified a specific signalling pathway, triggered by a receptor named CD27 that could be a target for such manipulation. By stimulating this receptor, we were able to reduce the activity of harmful auto-reactive cells and enhance the function of protective regulatory cells. In our current research we therefore explore the effect of stimulatory antibodies in an animal model of autoimmunity. This could be a first step towards a novel treatment approach for MS.

See the video by Isabel Vogel through this link