Anti-carbamylated protein antibodies and the risk for arthritis
Antibodies against citrullinated protein antigens (ACPA) have shown their relevance for the diagnosis and possibly pathogenesis in arthritis. Described are means and methods for determining antibodies against homocitrulline-containing proteins or carbamylated proteins/peptides (anti-CarP) for the classification of individuals suffering from, or at risk of suffering from, arthritis.
1. A kit for the detection of anti-Ca-Fib antibodies, in a body fluid of an individual, the kit comprising:
an in vitro carbamylated fibrinogen peptide comprising a peptide selected from the group consisting of the odd numbered SEQ ID NOs:5-215,
a solid support, and
an anti-human immunoglobulin antibody.
2. A kit for detecting anti-CarP antibodies in a body fluid of an individual, the kit comprising:
an in vitro carbamylated fetal calf serum (FCS),
a solid support, and
an anti-human immunoglobulin antibody.
3. The kit of claim 2 , wherein the anti-human immunoglobulin antibody comprises an anti-human IgG antibody.
4. The kit of claim 2 , wherein the anti-human immunoglobulin antibody comprises an anti-human IgA antibody.
5. The kit of claim 2 further comprising:
a citrullinated protein or peptide.
6. The kit of claim 1 comprising two carbamylated fibrinogen proteins or peptides.
7. The kit of claim 6 comprising three carbamylated proteins or peptides.
8. The kit of claim 1 , further comprising a fibrinogen peptide having a sequence selected from the group consisting of the even numbered SEQ ID NOS:4-214.
9. The kit of claim 2 , further comprising a non-modified FCS or a citrullinated FCS.