News

MG risk and immune system have a complex two-way connection

Certain inflammatory molecules known as cytokines may play a role in a person’s risk of developing myasthenia gravis (MG), according to a recent genetic study. The research suggests some of these immune-system signaling molecules could increase the risk of the autoimmune disease, while others might offer protection. The findings, which…

gMG patients can carry treatment resistant autoantibodies, study finds

People with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) can carry certain types of self-reactive antibodies — proteins that mistakenly target the body’s own cells and tissues — that drive the disease but are treatment resistant, according to a new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers. These self-reactive antibodies, or autoantibodies,…

Gefurulimab found to ease gMG symptoms in global Phase 3 trial

Treatment with gefurulimab, an experimental self-administered injection therapy, outperformed a placebo in easing symptoms of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) among people with the chronic autoimmune disease, the results of a Phase 3 clinical trial show. The trial met both its primary and secondary endpoints, or goals, with treatment…

Blinatumomab helps 2 women with resistant MG: Case report

A case report from Germany showed that two women with severe, treatment-resistant myasthenia gravis (MG) responded well to blinatumomab, suggesting the anti-cancer medication may offer a new option for hard-to-treat autoimmune diseases. “Since this first-in-human experience comprises two cases, our findings should be viewed as proof-of-concept rather than evidence…

Thymectomy surgery may cause long-term immune changes in MG

Surgery to remove the thymus gland led to a long-term reduction in levels of immune T-cells and to temporary changes in levels of proteins involved in regulating immune and inflammatory responses in people with myasthenia gravis (MG), a study shows. There were no significant effects on the levels of…

Povetacicept reduces disease activity in MG mouse model

Povetacicept, a treatment for autoimmune diseases in the pipeline of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, reduced disease activity in a study with a mouse model of myasthenia gravis (MG) by lowering the levels of disease-causing antibodies in the bloodstream. Researchers also observed that povetacicept outperformed efgartigimod — approved as Vyvgart…