Human IgG directed against amphiphysin induces anxiety behavior in a rat model after intrathecal passive transfer
Stiff person syndrome with auto-antibodies against amphiphysin is characterized by muscular stiffness, spasms, and anxiety which is a less appreciated core symptom. Here, we report that intrathecal application of purified immunoglobulin G-antibodies against amphiphysin from one patient induce anxiety behavior in rats. Immunostaining demonstrated binding of anti-amphiphysin antibodies to brain structures which are associated with anxiety disorders, such as the amygdala. We propose that antibody-mediated amphiphysin deficiency may account for anxiety behavior in stiff person syndrome via presynaptic dysregulation of GABAergic pathways.
Author contributions ::: ::: GH helped design the study, establish the animal model, collect and analyze samples, and write the manuscript. YY and DH helped establish the animal model, performed Western blotting, immunohistochemistry analyses. YY and DH also helped analyse data and revise the manuscript. QYW and JK contributed to study planning, analyse and interpret data, review and revise the manuscript. All authors have approved the final version of this article to be published and agreed to be accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring the questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work. ::: ::: ::: ::: Disclosure ::: ::: The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.