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Human herpesvirus 6 and Chlamydia pneumoniae as etiologic agents in multiple sclerosis - a critical review
Robert H Swanborg1, Judith A Whittum-Hudson, Alan P Hudson
1Department Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
Abstract:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is thought by many investigators to have an infectious component, and several microorganisms have been associated with the disease during the last three decades. Recent studies have implicated both human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and the obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia pneumoniae in the etiology of MS. As with earlier studies of other potential agents, however, evidence linking either of these organisms to the disease is equivocal. In this article, we review data for and against involvement of HHV-6 and C. pneumoniae in MS, as well as evidence concerning auxiliary factors, such as possession of the APOE epsilon4 allele, which may influence the role of these organisms in pathogenesis. Further, we suggest several lines of investigation that should clarify whether either or both pathogens are associated meaningfully with this disease.
Insights
Investigating the infectious origins of multiple sclerosis (MS), this study reviews evidence for human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and Chlamydia pneumoniae. Current data remain inconclusive, necessitating further research into these potential MS pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease with a suspected infectious etiology.
- Several microorganisms have been investigated for their potential role in MS pathogenesis over the past decades.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review the existing evidence linking human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and Chlamydia pneumoniae to multiple sclerosis.
- To examine the influence of auxiliary factors, such as APOE epsilon4 allele, on the potential role of these pathogens in MS.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating HHV-6 and C. pneumoniae in MS.
- Analysis of data supporting or refuting the association of these agents with MS.
- Evaluation of genetic factors, including APOE epsilon4, in the context of infectious triggers.
Main Results:
- Evidence for the direct involvement of HHV-6 and C. pneumoniae in MS etiology is currently equivocal.
- The role of these potential pathogens may be influenced by host genetic factors like APOE epsilon4.
- Existing data are insufficient to establish a definitive causal link.
Conclusions:
- Further research is required to elucidate the potential association between HHV-6, C. pneumoniae, and multiple sclerosis.
- Clarifying the role of these pathogens and host factors is crucial for understanding MS pathogenesis.
- Investigating specific lines of inquiry may help determine if these pathogens are meaningfully associated with MS.