Decreased expression of HLA-DR antigens on monocytes in patients with multiple sclerosis

Immunofluorescence, cell binding assays and enzyme immunoassays were used to investigate the expression of class II major histocompatibility antigens on peripheral blood monocytes in 67 patients with multiple sclerosis. Monocytes from patients with active disease expressed fewer HLA-DR molecules on their surface than normal monocytes; furthermore the percentage of cells which exhibited detectable amounts of surface HLA-DR antigens was decreased in patients with active multiple sclerosis. During the inactive stage of the disease both deficiencies were milder, probably representing secondary pathogenetic phenomena. Quantitation of monocyte surface HLA-DR antigen expression could be valuable in assessing the clinical disease activity. The demonstration of a molecular defect in patients with multiple sclerosis will improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease.