Changes in B-and T-lymphocyte and chemokine levels with rituximab treatment in multiple sclerosis

L Piccio, RT Naismith, K Trinkaus, RS Klein… - Archives of …, 2010 - jamanetwork.com
Background B cells are implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. A beneficial
effect of B-cell depletion using rituximab has been shown, but the complete mechanism of
action for this drug is unclear. Objective To determine the relationship between T and B cells
and changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) chemokine levels with rituximab, a monoclonal
antibody that targets CD20. Design Phase 2 trial of rituximab as an add-on therapy. Setting
The John L. Trotter Multiple Sclerosis Center, Washington University. Participants and …