[Serotonergic system as a therapeutic target in multiple sclerosis]

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.
• The gut-brain axis plays a significant role in modulating immune responses.
• Serotonin, a key neurotransmitter, is increasingly recognized for its immunomodulatory functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on serotonin's role in immunomodulation within the context of multiple sclerosis.
• To elucidate the specific effects of serotonin on T-helper 17 (Th17) immune responses and dendritic cell function in MS.
• To explore the implications of serotonin in regulating the gut-brain axis and its potential as a therapeutic target in MS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research.
• Analysis of studies investigating serotonin's impact on immune cell subsets relevant to MS pathogenesis.
• Examination of evidence linking gut microbiota, serotonin production, and neuroinflammation.

Main Results:

• Serotonin exhibits complex modulatory effects on Th17 cells, influencing their differentiation and cytokine production.
• Serotonin impacts the maturation and antigen-presenting capacity of dendritic cells, key players in initiating autoimmune responses.
• Evidence supports serotonin's involvement in the gut-brain axis, affecting systemic and central nervous system immunity.

Conclusions:

• Serotonin significantly influences key immune pathways implicated in multiple sclerosis.
• Targeting serotoninergic pathways, potentially via the gut-brain axis, offers promising avenues for novel pathogenetic therapies in MS.
• Further research into serotoninergic drugs could lead to effective treatments for multiple sclerosis.