Multiple Sclerosis: Studies of the Interferon system and search for infectious agents

摘要: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system, characterized by focal inflammatory lesions with demyelination and axonal loss. It believed that MS an immune-mediated disorder both genetic environmental contributions to pathogenesis. Interferons (IFNs) are naturally occurring proteins known have antiviral, antiproliferative immunoregulatory effects. Treatment IFN beta has favourable effect in while gamma was found precipitate exacerbations. We investigated whether polymorphisms system influenced susceptibility MS, but no linkage between any loci MS. Approximately 70% monozygotic twins discordant for indicating factors contribute development disease. investigated, 3 pairs serological differences could be important Two affected had evidence previous infection Borrelia burgdorferi respective Toxoplasma gondii. In general serum titers were strikingly similar twins, major disturbances humoral immune Many types viruses induce production, it unclear produced lesions. searched expression MxA, cytoplasmic protein induced IFNA/B, capability inhibit replication several viruses. No anti-MxA staining brain tissue consequently probably not these Oligoclonal bands (OCBs) detected CSF majority patients They result from continuous immunization against unknown antigens. if antibodies bound structures control secondary progressive contain unique structure binds IgG patients. Preincubation sections enhanced staining. Direct fluorescence labelled patient showed binding pattern as anti-IgG tissue. This indicates antigens/target absent normal brain. Double axons observed myelinated totally or partially demyelinated suggesting antibody may early event myelin axon destruction.