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Viral antibodies in twins with multiple sclerosis
Neurology
|August 1, 1985
Summary
This study found higher cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) antibody titers for measles, rubella, and vaccinia viruses in multiple sclerosis (MS) twins compared to their unaffected siblings. These viral antibody levels were also elevated in MS twins who tested positive for the DW2 gene.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Virology
- Genetics
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
- The role of viral infections and genetic predisposition in MS pathogenesis remains an active area of research.
- Antibody responses in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) offer insights into immune system activity within the central nervous system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between viral antibodies (measles, rubella, corona, vaccinia, mumps, Epstein-Barr virus) and multiple sclerosis (MS) in twin pairs.
- To explore differences in viral antibody titers in CSF and serum between MS-affected twins and their unaffected co-twins.
- To examine the influence of the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-DRB1*1501 (DW2) gene on viral antibody profiles in MS patients.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of viral antibody titers in serum and CSF samples from 24 twin pairs (discordant and concordant for MS).
- Comparison of antibody levels between MS twins and their unaffected co-twins, considering zygosity.
- Statistical analysis to assess correlations between antibody titers, MS status, and DW2 positivity.
Main Results:
- Elevated CSF antibody titers for rubella and vaccinia viruses were observed in MS twins compared to unaffected twins, particularly in dizygotic pairs.
- Increased CSF antibody titers for measles, rubella, and vaccinia were found in MS twins irrespective of zygosity.
- MS twins positive for DW2 exhibited higher serum and CSF measles and serum rubella antibody titers, along with altered CSF:serum measles virus antibody ratios.
Conclusions:
- Viral infections, specifically measles, rubella, and vaccinia, may play a role in the immunopathogenesis of MS.
- The presence of the DW2 gene is associated with distinct viral antibody profiles in individuals with MS.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the causal relationship between specific viral exposures, immune responses, and MS development.