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Indoleamine 2,3 Dioxygenase (IDO) Expression and Activity in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Roberta Mancuso1, Ambra Hernis1, Simone Agostini1
1Don C. Gnocchi Foundation ONLUS, Piazza Morandi 3, 20100, Milan, Italy.
Plos One
|June 26, 2015
Summary
Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO) levels correlate with multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses. Measuring IDO activity in blood may help monitor MS progression and guide new therapies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) induces indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO), suppressing T-cell responses.
- IDO is implicated in autoimmune disease pathogenesis.
- Investigated IDO's role in multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse onset.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if IDO gene expression and activity changes indicate MS relapse.
- To assess IDO and IFN-γ levels in different MS patient phases and controls.
Main Methods:
- Measured IDO and IFN-γ gene expression in 51 individuals (36 RR-MS patients, 15 controls).
- Assessed serum IDO activity (Kyn/Trp ratio) and neopterin concentration.
- Collected samples from acute MS (AMS) patients before and during therapy.
Main Results:
- IDO expression and IFN-γ were elevated in acute MS patients compared to stable MS.
- Glucocorticoid therapy significantly reduced IDO, IFN-γ, and IDO activity.
- Neopterin levels mirrored IDO expression and activity trends.
Conclusions:
- IDO gene expression and activity in blood can serve as a marker for monitoring RR-MS clinical course.
- Therapies targeting IDO activity may offer benefits for MS patients.
