Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis animal models for analyzing features of multiple sclerosis

Various animal models with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) have been developed applying immunologic, virologic, toxic and traumatic parameters in order to understand features of multiple sclerosis (MS). The main simulating aspects of the EAE models and the precautions for their interpretation in determining differences and common features between EAE and MS are presented. In view of an early diagnosis of CNS lesions in human, we present with particular interest the application of human-related technologies, such as MR imaging techniques, and the development of new markers to follow the dynamic of CNS lesions in vivo in EAE animal models.