Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition marked by joint inflammation, has long been linked to rheumatoid factor (RF), specifically IgM antibodies targeting IgG. Challenging traditional views, our recent research at Hypro Diagnostics reveals the presence of these autoantibodies in healthy individuals, where they actively regulate physiological processes. The critical factor lies in the class and affinity of these autoreactive antibodies. Low-affinity autoreactive IgM acts as a neutralizing force, safeguarding autoantigens, while surprisingly, high-affinity IgM stabilizes the target autoantigen. Our latest findings highlight the specific role of RFs with high affinity and mono-specificity to IgG—they play a stabilizing role for IgG. In contrast, low-affinity polyreactive RFs neutralize IgG in vivo. This dual functionality suggests a delicate balance in IgG homeostasis orchestrated by autoreactive IgM antibodies. Crucially, an imbalance in this interplay could impact the onset and progression of autoimmune diseases. As a potential avenue for Hypro Diagnostics, our study indicates the promising prospect of restoring balance through the use of low-affinity anti-IgG IgM—a novel approach for addressing autoimmune conditions involving autoreactive IgG.
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