A Novel Aza-MBP Altered Peptide Ligand for the Treatment of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis.

Myelin basic protein (MBP) is a major target of T cells in lesions of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Interactions between the major histocompatibility complex II containing antigenic peptides and the T cell receptor activate CD4+ T cells that perpetuate EAE and MS. Previously reported data has shown that treating with an altered peptide ligand (APL) in which the normal antigenic peptide sequence of MBP has been slightly changed at T cell contact positions is helpful in reducing disease in both rodents and humans.

Use of methylene blue for refractory septic shock during continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration.

As an inhibitor of nitric oxide, methylene blue has been investigated as an alternative vasopressor in patients with septic shock refractory to catecholamine vasopressors and as an agent to maintain hemodynamic stability in patients receiving intermittent hemodialysis. However, to our knowledge, the use of methylene blue as a vasopressor in patents receiving continuous renal replacement therapy has not been evaluated. We describe a 56-year-old man who was receiving continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) for acute renal failure secondary to sepsis.