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Updated: Apr 27, 2026
An Efficient and Simple Method to Establish NK and T Cell Lines from Patients with Chronic Active Epstein-Barr Virus Infection
Published on: March 30, 2018
Targeting Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) for treatment of multiple sclerosis
Samantha S Soldan1, Troy E Messick1, Paul M Lieberman1
1Center for Advanced Therapeutics, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA 19104.
Abstract:
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is now recognized as an essential causal agent in the development of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic autoimmune disease resulting in demyelination and neurodegeneration in the central nervous system (CNS). EBV is a ubiquitous human γ-herpesvirus that establishes long-term latent infection in a small subpopulation of memory B-lymphocytes. While EBV and B-lymphocytes are known to be drivers of MS autoimmune disease, it remains enigmatic how a small population of EBV-infected cells trigger and drive MS pathogenesis in some individuals. In this review, we discuss the known biology of EBV and its role in MS and other disease, including cancers, where EBV is an essential driving factor in disease progression. We review some of the conditions and cofactors that increase the risk of EBV infection leading to MS and the potential of pharmacological, biologic and vaccine approaches to more selectively target EBV to treat MS.
Insights
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a key cause of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This review explores how EBV drives MS pathogenesis and potential EBV-targeted therapies for this neurodegenerative disease.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Virology
- Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic CNS autoimmune disease characterized by demyelination and neurodegeneration.
- Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), a human γ-herpesvirus, establishes lifelong latent infections in memory B-lymphocytes.
- EBV and B-lymphocytes are implicated as drivers of MS, but the precise pathogenic mechanisms remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biological role of EBV in MS pathogenesis.
- To discuss cofactors that increase MS risk following EBV infection.
- To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting EBV for MS treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of EBV biology and its association with MS.
- Analysis of EBV's role in other EBV-associated diseases, including cancers.
- Examination of risk factors and therapeutic interventions for EBV-driven MS.
Main Results:
- EBV is an essential causal agent in MS development.
- EBV establishes latent infection in B-lymphocytes, contributing to autoimmune responses.
- Specific conditions and cofactors influence the risk of developing MS after EBV infection.
Conclusions:
- Targeting EBV offers a promising therapeutic avenue for MS.
- Understanding EBV's role is crucial for developing effective MS treatments.
- Pharmacological, biologic, and vaccine approaches are being investigated to target EBV in MS.
