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Pentoxifylline inhibits experimental allergic encephalomyelitis
S Nataf1, J P Louboutin, D Chabannes
1Clinique Neurologique, Hopital Laënnec, C.H.R.U. Nantes, France.
Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Pentoxifylline, a methylxanthine, reduced the incidence and severity of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in rats. This suggests pentoxifylline may be a potential therapeutic agent for multiple sclerosis by inhibiting tumor necrosis factor alpha.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) is implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Pentoxifylline is a methylxanthine known to inhibit TNF alpha production and action.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of pentoxifylline in preventing experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model for MS.
Main Methods:
- 26 Lewis rats with acute EAE were administered either pentoxifylline or a saline control.
- Clinical signs and histological inflammation were assessed.
Main Results:
- Pentoxifylline treatment resulted in a significantly lower incidence of clinical signs of EAE.
- Histological examination revealed significantly reduced inflammation in pentoxifylline-treated rats compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Pentoxifylline demonstrated a preventive effect against EAE in rats.
- The mechanism may involve the inhibition of TNF alpha release from central nervous system macrophages, suggesting a potential therapeutic role in MS.