TP B5: Modulation of autoimmunity by CD37-specific antibodies

The selective depletion of CD20+ B cells by application of CD20-specific therapeutic antibodies has significantly improved the therapeutic options in autoimmunity. The long-term effects of anti-CD20 treatment are largely unknown so far. Hence, development of 2nd generation B cell modulating therapeutic antibodies is currently of high scientific interest. One potential target is CD37, which is highly expressed on B cells. 

Several murine CD37-specific antibodies have been generated and binding epitopes are characterized. One CD37-specific antibody clone - B1 selectively depletes B cells when administered into the mice. In this project we will investigate the in vivo effects of this potential therapeutic antibody, with a focus on experimental autoimmune encephalitis.