Dr. Kaminski began his career in evaluating the reasons for the preferential involvement of eye muscles by myasthenia gravis. This focused set of evaluations led to the surprising discover of low levels of naturally occurring complement inhibitors in eye muscles. Complement is the prime driver of muscle injury in MG. These observations led to a series of investigations of complement and its potential for therapeutic intervention. The laboratory performed critical evaluations of the complement system in the pathogenesis of MG in laboratory animals, including an antibody directed against the C5 component of complement. The results justified the first clinical trial by the Alexion Corporation of a complement inhibitor (Eculizumab) in humans. Eculizumab is known under investigation in a Phase 3 trial for MG.
Dr. Kaminski is part of the leadership team of the National Institutes of Health (NINDS) funded trial of thymectomy for MG. He organized collection of thymus and blood samples from study participants which now is the largest biorepository for MG. Preliminary studies using these samples supported through supplemental funds by the NINDS are providing novel insights into MG pathogenesis.
Dr. Kusner is interested in mechanisms that lead to the persistence of autoreactive cells and inhibition of the complement system to moderate disease severity. Her extensive knowledge in animal models of MG have led to her leadership in development of standards in performance of preclinical research in myasthenia gravis.