Graves' Ophthalmopathy (GO)
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Graves' Ophthalmopathy (GO)

Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease most commonly associated with Graves' disease (GD). Protheragen extends full services for the creation of both diagnostics and therapeutics related to Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO).

Overview of Graves' Ophthalmopathy (GO)

Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO), is either thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) or thyroid eye disease (TED). An autoimmune condition frequently linked with hyperthyroidism, GO primarily impacts the orbits. It causes inflammation, remodeling, and tissue expansion, and, in severe cases, can result in proptosis, eyelid retraction, and vision impairment. The pathogenesis of GO is considered multifactorial due to the components of immune attack involving immune cells, various cytokines, and the presence of oxidative stress.

The pathogenesis and immunotherapy strategies of GO.Fig.1 The pathogenesis and immunotherapy strategies of Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). (Zhang X., et al., 2023)

Diagnostics Development for Graves' Ophthalmopathy (GO)

Serological Biomarkers

  • Thyrotropin Receptor Antibodies (TRAb): High titers correlate with disease severity.
  • IGF-1R Autoantibodies: Emerging biomarker for early detection.

Tear Fluid Proteomics

  • Identifies dysregulated proteins (e.g., S100A4, prolactin-induced protein) for non-invasive monitoring.

Single-Cell RNA Sequencing

  • Reveals GO-specific immune cell subsets (e.g., CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes) for precision diagnostics.

Therapeutics Development for Graves' Ophthalmopathy (GO)

  • Immunosuppressive Agents: Cyclosporine, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil contour the activation of immune cells and inflammation. For greater impact, these agents can be used in conjunction with corticosteroids.
  • Corticosteroids: Intravenous administration of methylprednisolone (IVMP) is favored over oral glucocorticoids because of its higher efficacy and lower side effects. Other combinations of therapies with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or other immunosuppressants are also employed.
  • Antioxidants: Selenium (Se) along with other oxidative stress fighters such as quercetin, vitamin C, and N-acetyl-L-cysteine, have shown promise in managing oxidative stress and inflammation in GO.
  • Targeted Molecular Therapies: In human trials, important progress was noted with TNF-alpha inhibitors such as etanercept and adalimumab, rituximab which is an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, tocilizumab which is an anti-IL-6 receptor inhibitor, as well as teprotumumab which is an IGF-1R inhibitor.

Our Services

Protheragen's expertise in immunology, molecular biology, and preclinical research allows us to provide tailored solutions for early detection, disease monitoring, and targeted therapeutics. We specialize in the development of non-invasive diagnostic methods, such as tear analysis and genetic profiling, as well as the evaluation of novel therapeutic agents through preclinical studies.

Disease Models

  • Recombinant Adenovirus Gene Immunization Models
  • Dendritic Cell (DC) Immunization Models
  • Plasmid-Based Genetic Immunization Models
  • Human TSHR A Subunit Plasmid Immunization Models
  • Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Receptor (IGF-1R) Plasmid Immunization Models

By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and deep expertise in autoimmune ophthalmology, Protheragen empowers researchers and biopharma partners to advance novel GO therapeutics from bench to clinic. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.

References

  • Zhang, Xin, Qixiang Zhao, and Bei Li. "Current and promising therapies based on the pathogenesis of Graves' ophthalmopathy." Frontiers in Pharmacology 14 (2023): 1217253.
  • Li, Xueting, et al. "Recent advances in graves ophthalmopathy medical therapy: a comprehensive literature review." International Ophthalmology 43.4 (2023): 1437-1449.