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Isolation and Quantification of Epstein-Barr Virus from the P3HR1 Cell Line
Published on: September 28, 2022
Epstein-Barr virus as a leading cause of multiple sclerosis: mechanisms and implications
Kjetil Bjornevik1,2, Christian Münz3, Jeffrey I Cohen4
1Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
Abstract:
Epidemiological studies have provided compelling evidence that multiple sclerosis (MS) is a rare complication of infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a herpesvirus that infects more than 90% of the global population. This link was long suspected because the risk of MS increases markedly after infectious mononucleosis (symptomatic primary EBV infection) and with high titres of antibodies to specific EBV antigens. However, it was not until 2022 that a longitudinal study demonstrated that MS risk is minimal in individuals who are not infected with EBV and that it increases over 30-fold following EBV infection. Over the past few years, a number of studies have provided clues on the underlying mechanisms, which might help us to develop more targeted treatments for MS. In this Review, we discuss the evidence linking EBV to the development of MS and the mechanisms by which the virus is thought to cause the disease. Furthermore, we discuss implications for the treatment and prevention of MS, including the use of antivirals and vaccines.
Insights
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is a rare cause of multiple sclerosis (MS). A 2022 study confirmed EBV infection increases MS risk over 30-fold, highlighting the need for targeted treatments and prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neurology
- Immunology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease with increasing evidence linking it to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.
- High antibody titers to EBV antigens and increased MS risk after infectious mononucleosis have long suggested a connection.
- EBV, a common herpesvirus, infects over 90% of the global population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiological and mechanistic evidence linking EBV to MS development.
- To discuss potential therapeutic and preventive strategies for MS based on the EBV connection.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies, including a key 2022 longitudinal study.
- Analysis of research on the underlying mechanisms of EBV-induced MS.
- Discussion of implications for antiviral and vaccine-based interventions.
Main Results:
- A 2022 longitudinal study demonstrated a >30-fold increase in MS risk following EBV infection.
- MS risk is minimal in individuals not infected with EBV.
- Ongoing research is uncovering mechanisms by which EBV may trigger MS.
Conclusions:
- Epstein-Barr virus is a significant risk factor for developing multiple sclerosis.
- Understanding EBV's role opens avenues for targeted MS treatments and prevention, potentially including antivirals and vaccines.
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