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Antiphospholipid antibodies.
1Department of Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Muncie, USA. dtriplett@chs.cami3.com
Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
|November 8, 2002
Summary
Lupus anticoagulants contribute to blood clots and pregnancy loss. Research suggests these antibodies target specific proteins, not just phospholipids, potentially requiring a name change.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Lupus anticoagulants are associated with thromboembolic events and recurrent spontaneous abortions.
- Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) are implicated in these conditions.
- The precise antigenic targets of aPLs are under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of lupus anticoagulants in venous and arterial thromboembolic events.
- To examine the involvement of lupus anticoagulants in recurrent spontaneous abortions.
- To discuss the pathophysiology of lupus anticoagulants and associated aPLs.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent medical literature.
- Analysis of key articles on lupus anticoagulants and thrombosis.
- Identification of antigenic targets for aPLs.
Main Results:
- Antiphospholipid antibodies target plasma proteins binding to perturbed cellular membranes.
- Key antigenic targets include beta(2)-glycoprotein I and prothrombin.
- Other protein targets interacting with activated membranes are also identified.
Conclusions:
- The term "antiphospholipid antibodies" may need reevaluation, possibly "antiprotein-phospholipid antibodies."
- Understanding these protein targets is crucial for comprehending pathogenesis.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of these antibodies.