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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
09:14
Isolation and Quantification of Epstein-Barr Virus from the P3HR1 Cell Line
Published on: September 28, 2022
Epstein-barr virus infection and multiple sclerosis: a review
Alberto Ascherio1, Kassandra L Munger
1Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Ave, Bldg. 2, 3rd Fl, Boston, MA 02115, USA. aascheri@hsph.harvard.edu
Summary
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, a lifelong B-lymphocyte persistence, significantly elevates the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). EBV-negative individuals have a very low MS risk, highlighting EBV
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Neurology
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) establishes lifelong B-lymphocyte persistence.
- EBV is linked to various cancers like lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
- EBV infection is a significant risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis.
- To explore the evidence linking EBV infection to an increased risk of MS development.
- To discuss potential biological mechanisms of EBV in MS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and evidence synthesis.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on EBV seropositivity and MS risk.
- Examination of immunological markers, such as antibodies to EBV antigens.
Main Results:
- Primary EBV infection in adolescence/adulthood (infectious mononucleosis) increases MS risk 2-3 fold.
- MS risk is substantially higher in EBV-positive individuals compared to EBV-negative individuals.
- Elevated antibodies to EBV antigens, particularly EBV nuclear antigen-1, are observed before MS onset.
Conclusions:
- EBV infection is strongly associated with an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis.
- Evidence suggests a significant role for EBV in the pathogenesis of MS.
- The precise biological mechanism linking EBV to MS requires further investigation.
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