Viral associations in multiple sclerosis: pathogenetic mechanisms and therapeutic implications - PubMed
3 hours ago
- #Multiple Sclerosis
- #Neuroimmunology
- #Viral Pathogenesis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological inflammatory disease with complex etiology, involving immune dysregulation and genetic susceptibility.
- Viral infections, particularly from the Herpesviridae family (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6) and SARS-CoV-2, are strongly linked to MS pathogenesis as environmental triggers.
- Viruses may initiate MS in predisposed individuals through mechanisms like molecular mimicry, inflammatory responses, and activation of autoreactive T- and B-cells.
- Latent viral infections and reactivation episodes could contribute to the relapsing presentation of MS.
- Future research directions include developing experimental models, identifying biomarkers, and investigating antiviral agents for improved MS management and targeted therapies.