Antiphospholipid antibody effects on monocytes.

Although the presence of autoantibodies is known to increase the risk of thrombosis in the antiphospholipid syndrome, the mechanism by which these antibodies exert their effects is poorly understood. Several studies suggest that autoantibody-mediated dysregulation of monocytes is one pathobiologic mechanism of this disease. Recent studies have focused on extra- and intracellular interactions involved in monocyte activation and expression of procoagulant activity. Agents specifically targeting monocyte activation and activity may provide a novel and efficacious approach that is safer than current antithrombotics.