Dysregulation of IL-10 and IL-12p40 in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a putative T helper 1 (Th-1) mediated inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system, and levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines have been found to correlate with changes in MS relapses. However, it is unclear if cytokine profiles differ between relapsing-remitting (RRMS) versus secondary progressive (SPMS) disease stages. Cytokine production (IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-12p40, TNF-alpha, and IFN-gamma) was assessed by cytometric bead array (CBA) and intracellular cytokine staining from alphaCD3 antibody and mitogen stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from female RRMS and SPMS patients, and healthy controls. Significantly increased production of IL-12p40 and decreased production of IL-10 were observed in SPMS patients. Differences in immune responsiveness in RRMS and SPMS are important in the understanding of the evolution of the immunopathogenesis of the disease and for the development of disease type specific treatments.