Anti-GM1 antibody facilitates leakage in an in vitro blood-nerve barrier model.

Using an in vitro blood-nerve barrier (BNB) model, the authors tested the effect of various monoclonal antiganglioside antibodies on BNB function. Only anti-GM1 antibody significantly facilitated BNB leakage in a concentration-dependent, complement-independent manner. This study provided evidence that anti-GM1 antibody, frequently detected in sera from patients with inflammatory neuropathies, may participate BNB dysfunction and contribute to development of neuropathy.