Endogenous retroviruses in multiple sclerosis: A network-based etiopathogenic model.
Stefano T Censi1, Renato Mariani-Costantini2, Alberto Granzotto3
1Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti-Pescara, Italy; Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies (ITAB), "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
Ageing Research Reviews
|June 26, 2024
Summary
Human endogenous retroviruses activation may drive multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis. This perspective proposes combined anti-retroviral therapy as a potential disease-modifying strategy for MS and aging-related neurodegeneration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Retroviral Research
- Aging and Neurodegeneration
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis involves complex genetic and environmental interactions.
- The role of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in disease etiology is increasingly recognized.
- Inflammation and aging share common pathways potentially linked to epigenetic dysregulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose an etiopathological model for MS pathogenesis centered on HERV activation.
- To explore the potential of combined anti-retroviral therapy for MS.
- To extend the HERV activation model to aging and age-related neurodegeneration.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical, clinical, epidemiological, and evolutionary evidence.
- Development of a conceptual model linking HERV transactivation to disease.
- Discussion of therapeutic implications and broader biological relevance.
Main Results:
- HERV transactivation is proposed as a critical node in MS development.
- Combined anti-retroviral therapy is suggested as a potential therapeutic strategy for MS.
- HERV activation may contribute to aging and neurodegeneration by inducing epigenetic noise and inflammation.
Conclusions:
- HERV activation offers a unifying hypothesis for MS pathogenesis and progression.
- Targeting HERVs could represent a novel therapeutic avenue for MS and neurodegenerative diseases.
- The concept of HERVs as drivers of 'epigenomic entropy' may link inflammation and aging.
Keywords:
AgeingAntiretroviral therapyEndogenous retrovirusMultiple sclerosisNeurodegenerationNeuroinflammationMore Related Videos
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