The severe and aggressive autoimmune disease known as neuromyelitis optica (NMO) just met a new match.

Without treatment, NMO can lead to serious disability, as rogue antibodies (AQP4-IgG) destroy the astrocyte support cells in the brain and spinal cord.

Therapies do exist to manage the condition, but they’re expensive, not always effective, and come with risks of their own – and relapses are common.