This review summarizes the present knowledge about ¦Â1-AABs, their role in DCM etiopathogenesis and the therapeutic benefits of ¦Â1-AAB removal. Special attention is focused on the possible origin of ¦Â1-AABs, their interaction with the ¦Â1-ARs, the prevalence of ¦Â1-AABs in patients with DCM and the potential pathophysiologic impact of these AABs in the development and progression of the disease. Attention is also given to the amelioration of ¦Â1-AAB cardiotoxicity by ¦Â1-AR antagonists and especially to immunoadsorption (IA) therapy. Responsiveness to IA therapy and its long-term efficiency, as well as post-IA reappearance of ¦Â1-AABs and its impact on patients?outcome are also discussed in detail. Finally the important question of whether the therapeutic results of IA are indeed related to ¦Â1-AAB removal is analyzed on the basis of available data.
Overall the review aims to provide an exhaustive overview of the available experimental and clinical data on ¦Â1-AABs in DCM and also a theoretical and practical basis for clinicians who are or intend in future to be engaged in this field.