Opsoclonus-Myoclonus-Ataxia Syndrome
Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome (OMAS) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by involuntary rapid eye movements (opsoclonus), muscle jerks (myoclonus), and impaired coordination (ataxia). Our company, a leader in therapy development services, is committed to providing the right solutions.
Overview of Opsoclonus-Myoclonus-Ataxia Syndrome
Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome (OMAS), also known as opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome (OMS), is a complex neurological disorder that primarily affects children but can also occur in adults. The exact cause of OMAS is still not fully understood. However, evidence suggests an autoimmune basis for the syndrome. Autoantibodies targeting specific neural antigens have been identified in some cases, indicating an immune-mediated attack on the nervous system. The triggers for this autoimmune response are not yet known, but viral infections or paraneoplastic associations, particularly with neuroblastoma, are suspected to play a role.
Fig.1 OMAS-related right ovarian cyst HE section shows mature cystic teratoma. (Miraclin A. T., et al., 2023)
Therapy Discovery and Development for OMAS
Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody therapy, targets specific B-cells involved in the autoimmune response. It has been effective in reducing relapse rates and improving outcomes in some OMAS cases. In cases where corticosteroids and other therapies are ineffective, additional immunosuppressive agents such as cyclophosphamide or mycophenolate mofetil may be considered. Our company specializes in developing innovative therapeutics to meet the unique needs of global pharmaceutical companies. Please click on the link below to learn more about our services.
Our Services
In addition to therapeutic development services, our company also provides diagnostics development services to assist in your OMAS research. To better understand the pathogenesis of OMAS and evaluate potential therapeutic interventions, we employ advanced animal models and in vitro models. These models allow us to study the disease mechanisms, test the efficacy of novel drug candidates, and gain valuable insights into the underlying biology of OMAS.
Ifi27l2a−/− Animal Models
The Ifi27l2a gene has been identified as a key player in regulating viral replication and neuronal cell death in specific regions of the central nervous system. At our company, we offer Ifi27l2a−/− animal model development services to facilitate research on opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome.
WNV Infected Animal Models
We employ rigorous protocols to induce West Nile virus (WNV) infection in animal models, mimicking the clinical manifestations observed in humans. By carefully controlling the viral load and infection route, we ensure reliable and reproducible results.
Our team of experienced researchers utilizes primary cells or cell lines derived from relevant neural tissues to establish cell-based models for OMAS. By applying advanced culture techniques and optimizing growth conditions, we create an environment that mimics the characteristics of OMAS in vitro.
We employ advanced techniques to generate organoids that recapitulate the characteristics of neural tissues affected by OMAS. By differentiating stem cells into specific neural lineages and manipulating their growth conditions, we can create organoids that exhibit features reminiscent of OMAS pathology.
Result Deliver
Our company offers preclinical research services focused on OMAS, enabling the evaluation of therapeutic candidates in a controlled and rigorous manner. In addition to the extensive array of services and models mentioned earlier, our proficiency extends to tailoring personalized solutions and creating disease models that precisely cater to your specific requirements. We take pride in our ability to adapt and customize our offerings to meet your unique needs. If our comprehensive range of services has captured your attention, we sincerely welcome you to reach out to us without any hesitation.
References
- Miraclin A. T., et al. "Opsoclonus myoclonus ataxia syndrome, ovarian teratoma and anti-NMDAR antibody: an 'unresolved'mystery." BMJ Neurology Open 5.1 (2023).
- Rossor Thomas, et al. "Diagnosis and management of opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome in children: an international perspective." Neurology: Neuroimmunology & Neuroinflammation 9.3 (2022): e1153.