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Bacteria-Host Interactions in Multiple Sclerosis

Davide Cossu1,2, Kazumasa Yokoyama1,2, Nobutaka Hattori1,2

  • 1Department of Neurology, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan.

Frontiers in Microbiology
|December 20, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Bacteria exposure is linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) development through immune system activation. Research explores how various bacteria may initiate or worsen MS, impacting both innate and acquired immunity.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Microbiology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) arises from complex genetic and environmental interactions.
  • Bacterial exposure is a significant environmental factor implicated in MS etiology.
  • Specific bacteria like Mycobacteria, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and Helicobacter pylori are investigated as potential risk factors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on the influence of bacteria on multiple sclerosis (MS) development.
  • To emphasize potential mechanisms by which bacteria affect MS initiation and progression.
  • To explore the roles of both innate and acquired immunity in bacteria-induced MS.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating the link between bacterial infections and MS.
  • Analysis of proposed mechanisms including molecular mimicry and Toll-like receptor activation.
  • Examination of evidence for both pathogenic and potentially protective roles of bacteria in MS.

Main Results:

  • Bacterial components can trigger autoreactive T cells and autoantibodies via molecular mimicry.
  • Toll-like receptors, crucial for innate immunity against bacteria, may contribute to CNS autoimmunity.
  • The specific pathogen and infection site influence the role of bacteria in MS.

Conclusions:

  • Bacteria play a multifaceted role in the development and progression of multiple sclerosis.
  • Understanding bacterial influence is key to elucidating MS pathogenesis.
  • Further research into immune responses to bacteria is crucial for MS management.
Keywords:
acquired immunitybacteriainnate immunitymultiple sclerosispathogen–host interaction

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