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Pro-inflammatory adiponectin in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis
Mukanthu H Nyirenda1, Giulia Fadda2, Luke M Healy3
1Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada/Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|February 1, 2021
Summary
Obesity is linked to higher multiple sclerosis (MS) risk. This study found elevated adiponectin (APN) in children with MS, potentially driving inflammation and disease activity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
Background:
- Obesity is associated with increased risk and activity of multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Adipokines, hormones from adipose tissue, may play a role in MS pathophysiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate adipokine levels, specifically adiponectin (APN), in pediatric-onset MS.
- To explore the pathophysiologic contribution of APN to MS in children.
Main Methods:
- Quantified APN and its isoforms using ELISA in 169 children with acquired demyelinating syndromes (ADS).
- Assessed the effects of recombinant APN and APN-containing sera on immune cells (myeloid, T cells) and microglia.
Main Results:
- Children with MS showed higher serum APN levels, primarily the low-molecular-weight isoform.
- Recombinant APN and MS serum promoted pro-inflammatory responses in monocytes and T cells.
- APN activated human microglia, reducing markers of quiescence.
Conclusions:
- Elevated APN in pediatric MS may fuel pro-inflammatory immune responses.
- APN might contribute to MS disease activity by activating peripheral immune cells and CNS microglia.
- APN represents a potential therapeutic target for MS.
