Disorders of the neuromuscular junction

Acquired myasthenic syndromes are mostly autoimmune diseases with antibodies directed to ion channels of the presynaptic (Lambert Eaten Myasthenic Syndrome) or postsynaptic (Myasthenia Gravis) membrane. Although both of these syndromes can be treated rather effectively there is still a need for finding more specific therapies with less side effects. Furthermore many questions about the pathogenesis remain and finding the corresponding answers might not only increase the knowledge of myasthenic syndromes but also develop insights in general mechanisms of autoimmunity. Some excellent animal models for Myasthenia Gravis exist based on autoimmune or pharmacological mechanisms. Clinical features and pathogeneity of clinical myasthenic syndromes and characteristics of experimental models are described here.