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The prevalence of locally-synthesized virus antibodies in various forms of multiple sclerosis
H J Schädlich1, H Karbe, K Felgenhauer
1Neurologic University Clinic, Cologne, F.R.G.
Abstract:
In 125 patients with multiple sclerosis, intrathecally synthesized antibodies against measles, rubella and zoster viruses were determined with an ELISA. 70% of patients with chronic progressive disease synthesized measles antibodies in comparison to 50% with a relapsing course. Women suffering from chronic progressive multiple sclerosis exhibited zoster antibodies 3 times as frequent as the other patients. These data indicate that relapsing and chronic progressive forms of multiple sclerosis exhibit different antiviral responses within the central nervous system which remain stable during the course of the disease.
Insights
Multiple sclerosis patients show distinct intrathecal antibody responses to measles, rubella, and zoster viruses. Chronic progressive forms exhibit higher measles and zoster antibody synthesis compared to relapsing forms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS).
- Viral infections are hypothesized to play a role in MS pathogenesis.
- Intrathecal antibody synthesis is a hallmark of CNS inflammation in MS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in intrathecal antibody synthesis against measles, rubella, and zoster viruses between relapsing and chronic progressive forms of multiple sclerosis.
- To determine if these antiviral immune responses are stable during the disease course.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify intrathecally synthesized antibodies.
- Antibodies against measles, rubella, and zoster viruses were measured in 125 patients with multiple sclerosis.
- Patients were categorized into relapsing and chronic progressive disease courses.
Main Results:
- 70% of patients with chronic progressive MS synthesized measles antibodies versus 50% with a relapsing course.
- Women with chronic progressive MS showed zoster antibodies three times more frequently than other patients.
- Distinct patterns of antiviral antibody synthesis were observed between MS disease subtypes.
Conclusions:
- Relapsing and chronic progressive forms of multiple sclerosis exhibit differential antiviral immune responses within the CNS.
- These distinct antiviral responses appear to be stable throughout the disease progression.
- The findings suggest a potential role for specific viral reactivations or immune responses in MS subtypes.