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Published on: September 12, 2016
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[Multiple sclerosis and the Epstein-Barr Virus: Current perspectives on their pathogenic mechanisms]
Luis Felipe Hernández-Salomón1
1Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad No. 71, Servicio de Neurología. Torreón, Coahuila, México.
Revista Medica Del Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social
|April 25, 2025
Summary
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) development. This review explores how EBV molecular mimicry, immune evasion, genetic factors like HLA-DRB1*15:01, and epigenetic changes contribute to MS pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
Context:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous herpesvirus associated with numerous diseases.
- A growing body of evidence links EBV infection to the development of multiple sclerosis (MS).
- While most individuals are infected with EBV, only a fraction develop MS, suggesting complex disease etiology.
Purpose:
- To review the proposed molecular mechanisms linking EBV infection to multiple sclerosis pathogenesis.
- To elucidate how viral factors and host genetics interact in MS development.
- To discuss potential EBV-targeted immunotherapies for MS.
Summary:
- EBV may trigger MS through molecular mimicry, where viral antigens resemble central nervous system proteins, eliciting an autoimmune response.
- EBV employs immune evasion strategies, such as expressing EBNA1 and EBNA2, to interfere with T and NK cell functions.
- Genetic factors, notably the HLA-DRB1*15:01 allele, enhance B cell susceptibility to EBV and increase MS risk.
- EBV can also epigenetically modify host genes, influencing immune response and inflammation pathways relevant to MS.
- Potential therapeutic strategies include EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) therapies.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of EBV's role in MS pathogenesis.
- Highlights the interplay between viral infection, host genetics, and immune dysregulation in MS.
- Informs the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for multiple sclerosis.
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