Related Experiment Videos
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.
Abstract:
From the early days of MS discovery, infections have been proposed as a possible cause of the disease. In the last three decades, an association between human endogenous retrovirus expression and MS has been further investigated and confirmed. Nevertheless, the role of such retroviruses in the disease needs clarification. In this review, we introduce MSRV/HERV-W and describe its association with MS. We then summarize the evidence for the involvement of MSRV/HERV-W in the aetiology and progression of MS and its possible role as biomarker and drug target. Biological mechanisms for HERV effects in MS may involve the activation of innate immune pathways by the envelope protein of MSRV (MSRVEnv). In addition to in vitro and experimental studies, further insight on how HERVs may influence immune-mediated pathology in MS may also come from the use of antiretroviral treatments in patients.
Insights
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.