Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026
![Dynamic Imaging of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells with [18F]Tetrafluoroborate Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F62334.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
Dynamic Imaging of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells with [18F]Tetrafluoroborate Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography
Published on: February 17, 2022
Drug-induced graves disease from CTLA-4 receptor suppression
Gary Borodic1, David M Hinkle, Yihong Cia
1Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts 02142, USA. borodic@aol.com
Abstract:
Monoclonal antibody, ipilimumab, useful for treatment of metastatic melanoma, blocks CTLA-4 mediated T-cell suppression and can also cause a Graves ophthalmopathy like syndrome. Epidemiologic study has linked variant polymorphisms of CTLA-4 receptor gene to the presence of thyroid eye disease. The combination of these observations suggests CTLA-4 mediated T-cell functions are important to the pathogenesis of thyroid-associated eye disease.
Insights
Ipilimumab, a monoclonal antibody, can cause Graves ophthalmopathy. Genetic variations in the CTLA-4 receptor are linked to thyroid eye disease, suggesting CTLA-4
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Ophthalmology
- Genetics
Background:
- Monoclonal antibody ipilimumab treats metastatic melanoma by blocking CTLA-4 mediated T-cell suppression.
- Ipilimumab can induce a Graves ophthalmopathy-like syndrome.
- Thyroid-associated eye disease (TAED) is an autoimmune condition affecting the eyes.
Observation:
- An epidemiologic study identified a link between specific polymorphisms in the CTLA-4 receptor gene and the presence of thyroid eye disease.
- The mechanism by which ipilimumab causes ophthalmopathy suggests a role for T-cell regulation in this condition.
Findings:
- The study suggests that CTLA-4 mediated T-cell functions are critically involved in the pathogenesis of thyroid-associated eye disease.
- Genetic variations in CTLA-4 may predispose individuals to developing TAED.
Implications:
- These findings highlight the importance of CTLA-4 signaling in the immune response within the orbit.
- Understanding the role of CTLA-4 in TAED could lead to novel therapeutic strategies targeting T-cell regulation.
- Further research into CTLA-4 polymorphisms may aid in identifying individuals at higher risk for TAED.
Related Concept Videos
Graves Disease II: Pathophysiology
Graves' Disease I: Introduction
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Biologic Agents: Anti-TNF
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Immunomodulatory Agents
Hyperthyroidism I: Introduction
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease
