Frequent Genetic Alterations in Myositis Autoantigen Genes in Cancer-Associated Dermatomyositis

One-third of patients diagnosed with dermatomyositis harbor an occult cancer, a rare condition named cancer-associated dermatomyositis (CAD). Emerging evidence suggests that genetic alterations in autoantibody-related genes give rise neoantigens and specific autoantibodies that initiate an autoimmune response characteristic of CAD. This study evaluated the prevalence of such genetic alterations and elucidated molecular mechanisms that may underlie their role in triggering autoimmunity. We detected highly frequent genetic alterations in autoantibody-related genes, supporting their role in the CAD pathogenic mechanisms. Distinct TCR repertoire and immune signatures between tumoral and non-tumoral tissues may underlie divergent cancer and dermatomyositis outcomes. Neglected, immunotherapy may offer clinical benefit in selected cases of CAD and warrants further investigation.

• Type: Exome Sequencing
• Archiver: European Genome-phenome Archive (EGA)