Guillian-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is the world’s leading cause of neuromuscular paralysis occurring in serologically and pathogenically distinct forms. GBS is believed to have an autoimmune basis, where antibodies raised during antecedent infections (eg Campylobacter jejuni) cross-react with self antigens, exemplifying the process of molecular mimicry. These self-antigens are gangliosides, which are glycolipid structures enriched in peripheral nerve in specific membrane compartments termed lipid rafts. To date, successful murine models of anti-GD1a and anti-Gq1b ganglioside mediated neuropathy exist. Clinical evidence supports the involvement of anti-GM1 antibodies in nerve injury, however generation of anti-GM1 antibody mediated neuropathy models remain an enigma, and to date, the only successful model is based in Japanese rabbits. This thesis aims to address the controversies surrounding anti-GM1 antibody mediated neuropathy by utilising a panel of anti-GM1 antibodies of differing specificity, and explores how the stereometric interactions of GM1 with lipid raft species underpin the pathogenic potential of these antibodies
