Understanding the Link Between Autoantibodies and Skin Disease

Pemphigus foliaceus is one of the most diagnosed autoimmune skin diseases of dogs. In this disease, the dog’s own immune system mounts an attack against proteins that anchor skin cells to one another. This results in localized to widespread pustules, erosions and crusting. Management of this disease currently involves the long-term prescription of immunosuppressive drugs that frequently result in treatment-limiting side effects. In this study, researchers will use a novel detection method to screen dogs with pemphigus foliaceus for the presence of a specific type of antibody (IgA autoantibodies) that may play a key role in disease development. Obtaining a more thorough understanding of the immune response in dogs with pemphigus foliaceus, including the role of IgA autoantibodies, will inform the development of much-needed novel therapies to improve the quality of life for patients.