Compartmentalization of inflammation in the CNS: a major mechanism driving progressive multiple sclerosis

J Neurol Sci. 2008 Nov 15;274(1-2):42-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jns.2008.06.032. Epub 2008 Aug 19.

Abstract

In multiple sclerosis (MS) the CNS is not only the target of the pathological immune response, but the CNS itself becomes an immunological compartment during the course of the disease. This comprises (i) inflammation beyond classical white matter lesions, (ii) intrathecal Ig production with oligoclonal bands, (iii) an environment fostering immune cell persistence, (iv) follicle-like aggregates in the meninges, (v) a disruption of the blood-brain barrier also outside of active lesions, which allows influx of autoantibodies possibly promoting demyelination or axonal injury and influx of fibrinogen driving inflammation.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Central Nervous System / immunology*
  • Central Nervous System / pathology*
  • Demyelinating Diseases / pathology
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / pathology*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / immunology*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / pathology*