Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 4, 2026
Two-photon Imaging of Cellular Dynamics in the Mouse Spinal Cord
Published on: February 22, 2015
[New morphological data on multiple sclerosis]
Abstract:
The brain from 6 patients who died of multiple sclerosis was studied with MR tomography (MRT), macroscopy, light (CD 3, CD 20, LCA antigens) and electron microscopy (EM). Typical foci of demyelinization (plaques) were found in all cases. Alterations of brain arteries were found particularly in arteries of narrow lumen--with disturbance or even absence of elastin and muscle layer. Up to 30% of the vessels were surrounded by microcavities. Perivascular infiltrates consisting primarily of T lymphocytes were observed around the vessels (up to 70% of all vessels). This indicates the importance of vascular changes in the disease pathogenesis. Four variants of demyelinization (plaques) are distinguished depending on the degree of destruction of myelin, axons and glia. Two types of cells were found in the plaques with most pronounced changes: astrocytes and newly formed oligodendrocytes. Classification of plaques is suggested.
Insights
Multiple sclerosis brain studies reveal significant vascular changes, including arterial wall damage and perivascular inflammation, highlighting their role in demyelination. Plaques show varying destruction, with astrocytes and new oligodendrocytes present.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pathology
- Immunology
Context:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Understanding the precise mechanisms of demyelination and neurodegeneration in MS is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose:
- To investigate the neuropathological changes in the brains of patients with multiple sclerosis, with a focus on vascular alterations and demyelinating plaque characteristics.
Summary:
- Autopsy brains from 6 multiple sclerosis patients were examined using MR tomography, macroscopy, and light/electron microscopy.
- Typical demyelinating plaques were observed, alongside significant alterations in brain arteries, including elastin/muscle layer disruption and microcavity formation around vessels.
- Perivascular infiltrates, predominantly T lymphocytes, were found, suggesting vascular changes are integral to MS pathogenesis.
- Four variants of demyelination were identified based on myelin, axon, and glia destruction.
- Astrocytes and newly formed oligodendrocytes were prevalent in severely affected plaques, leading to a proposed plaque classification.
Impact:
- This study underscores the critical role of vascular pathology in multiple sclerosis pathogenesis.
- The findings provide a basis for a new classification of demyelinating plaques in MS.
- Further research into vascular-targeted therapies for MS may be warranted.
