Siglec-1 and -2 as potential biomarkers in autoimmune disease

Autoimmune diseases (ADs) are currently treated with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs, aimed at reducing symptoms of disease in order to improve quality of life for patients. However, for a significant number of patients these therapies are ineffective, leading to an increased risk of irreversible damage and eventual disability in certain cases. Growing evidence has implicated glycosylated proteins and their cognate receptors in modulation of the autoimmune response. This review will summarize these findings with particular focus on sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin (Siglec)-1 and Siglec-2 involvement in AD. Fluctuations in these glycosylation-dependent pathways could act as sentinels of disease activity or drug responses. If validated, protein modification and cellular response markers could help clinicians achieve remission earlier.