[Autoantibodies to nerve growth factor and astroglial protein S-100 in Rett's syndrome].
The levels of autoantibodies (AAB) to nerve growth factor (NGF) and to S-100 protein were examined in blood of both mentally normal girls and girls with Rett's syndrome (RS). The elevated titer of anti-NGF AAB, but not of anti-S-100 AAB was determined in the blood of patients with RS. There was relative individual stability of anti-NGF AAB level which didn't depend on the stage of the disease. At the same time, a reverse correlation was found between the level of these antibodies and severity of the disease: the mild form of the disease (with relative preservation of the speech elements and locomotor functions as well as with the later age of the onset of the disease and the later development of the regressive symptoms) is characterized by the higher AAB level. Autoimmune processes role (anti-NGF AAB) in formation of RS clinical features is discussed.