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Updated: Mar 29, 2026
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Myeloid cell distribution and activity in multiple sclerosis
Verónica Moliné-Velázquez1, Virginia Vila-Del Sol2, Fernando de Castro3
1Developmental Neurobiology Group-GNDe, National Hospital for Paraplegics, Finca "La Peraleda", Toledo and Animal Experimental Unit, Scientific Instrumentation Center (CIC), Cartuja Campus, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
Abstract:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease in which an exacerbated immune response provokes oligodendrocyte loss and demyelination, the hallmarks of this neurological disease. The destruction of myelin due to the uncontrolled activity of the invading immune cells leads to the formation of MS plaques. Among the different leukocytes that participate in the immune response associated with MS, the role of myeloid cells has been analyzed extensively (i.e. macrophages, dendritic cells -DCs- and neutrophils). Hence, in this review we will summarize what is known about the distribution, expression and markers available to study myeloid cells, and their histopathology, not only in a standard animal model of MS (autoimmune experimental encephalomyelitis -EAE) but also in MS tissue. In this review, we will not only refer to mature myeloid cells but also to the undifferentiated and almost unexplored myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). The active role of MDSCs in the prompt resolution of an immune episode is gaining importance, yet is still the subject of some debate. Finally, the similarities and differences between MS and EAE are discussed, particularly in terms of myeloid cell phenotype, activity and the markers used.
Insights
This review examines myeloid cells in multiple sclerosis (MS) and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). It details myeloid cell distribution, markers, and histopathology, including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs).
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating neurological disease characterized by oligodendrocyte loss and myelin sheath destruction.
- An overactive immune response, involving various leukocytes, drives MS pathology, leading to the formation of characteristic plaques.
- Myeloid cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), and neutrophils, play a significant role in the immune response during MS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the distribution, expression, and available markers for studying myeloid cells in both MS and the EAE animal model.
- To explore the histopathology of myeloid cells in MS and EAE.
- To discuss the role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in immune resolution and their relevance to MS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review summarizing existing research on myeloid cells in MS and EAE.
- Analysis of myeloid cell distribution, phenotype, and markers in both disease contexts.
- Comparison of myeloid cell characteristics between MS patients and the EAE model.
Main Results:
- Myeloid cells are key players in MS immunopathology, with distinct roles and distributions.
- The EAE model offers insights into MS myeloid cell behavior, though differences exist.
- Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are increasingly recognized for their potential role in immune regulation during demyelinating diseases.
Conclusions:
- Understanding myeloid cell dynamics, including MDSCs, is crucial for deciphering MS pathogenesis.
- Comparative analysis between MS and EAE highlights conserved and divergent aspects of myeloid cell involvement.
- Further research into myeloid cell markers and functions can inform therapeutic strategies for MS.
