Autoreactive T lymphocytes in multiple sclerosis: pathogenic role and therapeutic targeting

Acta Neurol Belg. 1999 Mar;99(1):65-9.

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS), leading to demyelination. Accumulating evidence suggests that MS is an autoimmune disease, mediated by autoreactive T cells with specificity for myelin antigens. The identity of the brain antigens, which are the primary targets of the autoimmune process remains unknown, but myelin basic protein (MBP) is a likely candidate. We will overview some of the experimental evidence, suggesting that MBP reactive T cells hold a central position in the pathogenesis of MS, and discuss how these autoreactive T cells can be therapeutically targeted by T cell vaccination.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmunity*
  • Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / immunology*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / therapy
  • Myelin Sheath / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Vaccination