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Human endogenous retroviruses and multiple sclerosis: Causation, association, or after-effect?
Elena Morandi1, Rachael E Tarlinton2, Radu Tanasescu3
1Clinical Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine, Nottingham, UK.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|April 14, 2017
Summary
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), specifically MSRV/HERV-W, are linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) development and progression. Further research is needed to clarify their role as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Virology
- Genetics
Background:
- Infections have long been suspected as a potential cause of multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Recent decades have focused on the association between human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) expression and MS.
- The precise role of HERVs in MS pathogenesis remains to be fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between MSRV/HERV-W and MS.
- To summarize evidence supporting MSRV/HERV-W's involvement in MS aetiology and progression.
- To explore MSRV/HERV-W as a potential biomarker and drug target for MS.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on MSRV/HERV-W and MS.
- Analysis of in vitro and experimental studies.
- Consideration of clinical data, including antiretroviral treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- MSRV/HERV-W expression is confirmed to be associated with MS.
- Evidence suggests MSRV/HERV-W contributes to MS aetiology and progression.
- MSRVEnv protein may activate innate immune pathways, implicating HERVs in MS pathology.
Conclusions:
- MSRV/HERV-W is significantly associated with multiple sclerosis.
- Understanding HERV mechanisms in MS could lead to novel therapeutic strategies.
- Antiretroviral treatments may offer insights into managing HERV-related MS pathology.