Biomarkers in Myasthenia Gravis in support of the development of a disease specific treatment

Important results from the project

The purpose and goal of developing MG-specific biomarkers has come a long way. We have now succeeded in defining normal reference levels of some relevant microRNAs and again confirmed higher levels of these in MG patients than in healthy volunteers. In addition, we have identified some other potential biomarkers in the animal model. The goal of analysing the current situation of Swedish MG patients has also come a long way. They have expressed their wish of obtaining information about therapies in development and confirmed the need of safer and more effective treatments.

Expected long term effects

Swedish MG patients explained their condition with current treatments and expressed interest in new improved MG therapies. The levels of some of the analyzed microRNAs were higher in MG-affected individuals compared to healthy controls in both human and animal studies. In addition, a handful of microRNAs potentially related to treatment effect were identified. All these microRNAs are potential MG biomarkers that can be used to facilitate diagnosis, the creation of personalized treatments and the development of new MG therapies.

Approach and implementation

Since the goals of the project were achieved, we are satisfied with the methods used and the data obtained. Further analysis is needed but we are definitely much closer to finding MG specific biomarkers. Despite the global COVID-19 pandemic, we were able to collect blood samples from healthy controls, but the collection of fresh blood from MG patients was challenging. However, thanks to the existing biobank, it was still possible to carry out the microRNA studies.