Cell-based method for detecting antibodies against subunits of the neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in a subject is disclosed. The method comprises steps of



engineering cells to express at least one protein;
optionally, culturing said cells with at least one substance;
exposing said cells to body fluid or tissue from subject; and
detecting a reaction between at least one protein and antibodies found in body fluid or tissue,
obtaining a diagnosis for the patient.




A kit is also disclosed for detecting antibodies against subunits of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in a subject. The kit comprises cells expressing at least one protein; at least one medium for cell culture, at least one buffer for cell culture; and optionally, at least one substance.