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A Sardinian map for multiple sclerosis

Davide Cossu1, Speranza Masala, Leonardo A Sechi

  • 1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Experimental & Clinical Microbiology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.

Future Microbiology
|February 5, 2013
PubMed

Insights

This review explores Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis as a potential cause of multiple sclerosis (MS). It examines evidence suggesting this bacterium may trigger the autoimmune disease through molecular mimicry.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Microbiology
  • Autoimmune Diseases

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system (CNS) autoimmune disorder with unknown etiology.
  • Environmental factors acting on genetic predisposition are suspected triggers for MS.
  • Microorganisms are increasingly implicated in triggering autoimmunity via cross-reactivity or molecular mimicry.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of bacteria in multiple sclerosis (MS) etiology.
  • To highlight Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) as a novel candidate for MS causation.
  • To discuss evidence supporting MAP's causal role and postulate a mechanism for initiating MS autoimmunity.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on microbial involvement in MS.
  • Focus on Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) as an etiologic agent.
  • Analysis of arguments supporting MAP's role in MS and proposed mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • Several microorganisms are suggested to play a role in MS pathogenesis.
  • Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) is presented as a significant new candidate.
  • Arguments supporting a causal link between MAP and MS are discussed.

Conclusions:

  • The review emphasizes the potential role of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) in multiple sclerosis (MS) development.
  • A mechanism is proposed for how MAP could initiate the autoimmune process in MS.
  • Further research into MAP's involvement in MS etiology is warranted.

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