Involvement of CD8(+) T Cells in Multiple Sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Autoimmune Diseases

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system autoimmune disease.
• CD4(+) T cells have been historically recognized as key players in MS pathogenesis.
• Recent findings suggest CD8(+) T cells may have been underestimated in MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature implicating CD8(+) T cells in MS pathophysiology.
• To consolidate evidence on the role of CD8(+) T cells in MS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies in genetics, anatomopathology, and immunology.
• Analysis of human brain lesions and MS animal models.

Main Results:

• Evidence strongly implicates CD8(+) T cells in MS.
• The pathological role of CD8(+) T cells in MS may be significant.
• Data spans human studies and animal models.

Conclusions:

• CD8(+) T cells are likely major effectors in the multiple sclerosis disease process.
• Developing treatments targeting CD8(+) T cells is warranted for MS.