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Oh J, Giacomini PS, Yong VW, Costello F, Blanchette F, Freedman MS. From progression to progress: The future of multiple sclerosis. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2024; 16:11795735241249693. [PMID: 38711957 PMCID: PMC11072059 DOI: 10.1177/11795735241249693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Significant advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis in recent years yet challenges remain. The current classification of MS phenotypes according to disease activity and progression, for example, does not adequately reflect the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that may be acting in an individual with MS at different time points. Thus, there is a need for clinicians to transition to a management approach based on the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that drive disability in MS. A Canadian expert panel convened in January 2023 to discuss priorities for clinical discovery and scientific exploration that would help advance the field. Five key areas of focus included: identifying a mechanism-based disease classification system; developing biomarkers (imaging, fluid, digital) to identify pathologic processes; implementing a data-driven approach to integrate genetic/environmental risk factors, clinical findings, imaging and biomarker data, and patient-reported outcomes to better characterize the many factors associated with disability progression; utilizing precision-based treatment strategies to target different disease processes; and potentially preventing disease through Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) vaccination, counselling about environmental risk factors (e.g. obesity, exercise, vitamin D/sun exposure, smoking) and other measures. Many of the tools needed to meet these needs are currently available. Further work is required to validate emerging biomarkers and tailor treatment strategies to the needs of individual patients. The hope is that a more complete view of the individual's pathobiology will enable clinicians to usher in an era of truly personalized medicine, in which more informed treatment decisions throughout the disease course achieve better long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Oh
- St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - V. Wee Yong
- University of Calgary and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, Canada
| | - Fiona Costello
- University of Calgary and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, Canada
| | | | - Mark S. Freedman
- Department of Medicine¸ University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, QC, Canada
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Eckert S, Jakimovski D, Zivadinov R, Hicar M, Weinstock-Guttman B. How to and should we target EBV in MS? Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024. [PMID: 38477887 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2328739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) remains unknown. Pathogenesis likely relies on a complex interaction between multiple environmental, genetic, and behavioral risk factors. However, a growing body of literature supports the role of a preceding Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection in the majority of cases. AREAS COVERED In this narrative review, we summarize the latest findings regarding the potential role of EBV as a predisposing event inducing new onset of MS. EBV interactions with the genetic background and other infectious agents such as human endogenous retrovirus are explored. Additional data regarding the role of EBV regarding the rate of mid- and long-term disease progression is also discussed. Lastly, the effect of currently approved disease modifying therapies (DMT) for MS treatment on the EBV-based molecular mechanisms and the development of new EBV-specific therapies are further reviewed. EXPERT OPINION Recent strong epidemiological findings support that EBV may be the primary inducing event in certain individuals that shortly thereafter develop MS. More studies are needed in order to better understand the significant variability in susceptibility based on environmental factors such as EBV exposure. Future investigations should focus on determining the specific EBV-related risk antigen(s) and phenotyping people with likely EBV-induced MS. Targeting EBV via several different avenues, including development of an EBV vaccine may become the mainstay of MS treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Eckert
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Dejan Jakimovski
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Mark Hicar
- Department of Pediatrics Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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3
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Raghib MF, Bernitsas E. From Animal Models to Clinical Trials: The Potential of Antimicrobials in Multiple Sclerosis Treatment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3069. [PMID: 38002068 PMCID: PMC10668955 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11113069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, autoimmune, demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Microbes, including bacteria and certain viruses, particularly Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), have been linked to the pathogenesis of MS. While there is currently no cure for MS, antibiotics and antivirals have been studied as potential treatment options due to their immunomodulatory ability that results in the regulation of the immune process. The current issue addressed in this systematic review is the effect of antimicrobials, including antibiotics, antivirals, and antiparasitic agents in animals and humans. We performed a comprehensive search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for articles on antimicrobials in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis animal models of MS, as well as in people with MS (pwMS). In animal models, antibiotics tested included beta-lactams, minocycline, rapamycin, macrolides, and doxycycline. Antivirals included acyclovir, valacyclovir, and ganciclovir. Hydroxychloroquine was the only antiparasitic that was tested. In pwMS, we identified a total of 24 studies, 17 of them relevant to antibiotics, 6 to antivirals, and 1 relevant to antiparasitic hydroxychloroquine. While the effect of antimicrobials in animal models was promising, only minocycline and hydroxychloroquine improved outcome measures in pwMS. No favorable effect of the antivirals in humans has been observed yet. The number and size of clinical trials testing antimicrobials have been limited. Large, multicenter, well-designed studies are needed to further evaluate the effect of antimicrobials in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Faraz Raghib
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA;
| | - Evanthia Bernitsas
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA;
- Sastry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Vasileiou ES, Fitzgerald KC. Multiple Sclerosis Pathogenesis and Updates in Targeted Therapeutic Approaches. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2023; 23:481-496. [PMID: 37402064 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-023-01102-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this review, we provide a comprehensive update on current scientific advances and emerging therapeutic approaches in the field of multiple sclerosis. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common disorder characterized by inflammation and degeneration within the central nervous system (CNS). MS is the leading cause of non-traumatic disability in the young adult population. Through ongoing research, an improved understanding of the disease underlying mechanisms and contributing factors has been achieved. As a result, therapeutic advancements and interventions have been developed specifically targeting the inflammatory components that influence disease outcome. Recently, a new type of immunomodulatory treatment, known as Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, has surfaced as a promising tool to combat disease outcomes. Additionally, there is a renewed interested in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) as a major potentiator of MS. Current research efforts are focused on addressing the gaps in our understanding of the pathogenesis of MS, particularly with respect to non-inflammatory drivers. Significant and compelling evidence suggests that the pathogenesis of MS is complex and requires a comprehensive, multilevel intervention strategy. This review aims to provide an overview of MS pathophysiology and highlights the most recent advances in disease-modifying therapies and other therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni S Vasileiou
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathryn C Fitzgerald
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Andersen O, Ernberg I, Hedström AK. Treatment Options for Epstein-Barr Virus-Related Disorders of the Central Nervous System. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:4599-4620. [PMID: 37465179 PMCID: PMC10351589 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s375624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a causative agent for several types of lymphomas and mucosal cancers, is a human lymphotropic herpesvirus with the capacity to establish lifelong latent infection. More than 90% of the human population worldwide is infected. The primary infection is usually asymptomatic in childhood, whereas infectious mononucleosis (IM) is common when the infection occurs in adolescence. Primary EBV infection, with or without IM, or reactivation of latent infection in immunocompromised individuals have been associated with a wide range of neurologic conditions, such as encephalitis, meningitis, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, and cerebellitis. EBV is also involved in malignant lymphomas in the brain. An increasing number of reports on EBV-related disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) including the convincing association with multiple sclerosis (MS) have put in focus EBV-related conditions beyond its established link to malignancies. In this review, we present the clinical manifestations of EBV-related CNS-disorders, put them in the context of known EBV biology and focus on available treatment options and future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluf Andersen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingemar Ernberg
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Biomedicum Q8C, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Anna Karin Hedström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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6
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Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human lymphotropic herpesvirus with a well-established causal role in several cancers. Recent studies have provided compelling epidemiological and mechanistic evidence for a causal role of EBV in multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is the most prevalent chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system and is thought to be triggered in genetically predisposed individuals by an infectious agent, with EBV as the lead candidate. How a ubiquitous virus that typically leads to benign latent infections can promote cancer and autoimmune disease in at-risk populations is not fully understood. Here we review the evidence that EBV is a causal agent for MS and how various risk factors may affect EBV infection and immune control. We focus on EBV contributing to MS through reprogramming of latently infected B lymphocytes and the chronic presentation of viral antigens as a potential source of autoreactivity through molecular mimicry. We consider how knowledge of EBV-associated cancers may be instructive for understanding the role of EBV in MS and discuss the potential for therapies that target EBV to treat MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha S. Soldan
- grid.251075.40000 0001 1956 6678The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Paul M. Lieberman
- grid.251075.40000 0001 1956 6678The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA USA
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Lezhnyova V, Davidyuk Y, Mullakhmetova A, Markelova M, Zakharov A, Khaiboullina S, Martynova E. Analysis of herpesvirus infection and genome single nucleotide polymorphism risk factors in multiple sclerosis, Volga federal district, Russia. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1010605. [PMID: 36451826 PMCID: PMC9703080 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1010605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a heterogeneous disease where herpesvirus infection and genetic predisposition are identified as the most consistent risk factors. Serum and blood samples were collected from 151 MS and 70 controls and used to analyze circulating antibodies for, and DNA of, Epstein Barr virus (EBV), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6), and varicella zoster virus (VZV). The frequency of selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MS and controls were studied. Herpesvirus DNA in blood samples were analyzed using qPCR. Anti-herpesvirus antibodies were detected by ELISA. SNPs were analyzed by the allele-specific PCR. For statistical analysis, Fisher exact test, odds ratio and Kruskall-Wallis test were used; p<0.05 values were considered as significant. We have found an association between circulating anti-HHV6 antibodies and MS diagnosis. We also confirmed higher frequency of A and C alleles in rs2300747 and rs12044852 of CD58 gene and G allele in rs929230 of CD6 gene in MS as compared to controls. Fatigue symptom was linked to AC and AA genotype in rs12044852 of CD58 gene. An interesting observation was finding higher frequency of GG genotype in rs12722489 of IL2RA and T allele in rs1535045 of CD40 genes in patient having anti-HHV6 antibodies. A link was found between having anti-VZV antibodies in MS and CC genotype in rs1883832 of CD40 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Lezhnyova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Yuriy Davidyuk
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Asia Mullakhmetova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Maria Markelova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Alexander Zakharov
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
| | - Svetlana Khaiboullina
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Martynova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Russia
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8
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Maslinska M, Kostyra-Grabczak K. The role of virus infections in Sjögren’s syndrome. Front Immunol 2022; 13:823659. [PMID: 36148238 PMCID: PMC9488556 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.823659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune disease with a clinical picture of not only mainly exocrine gland involvement, with dryness symptoms, but also internal organ and systems involvement. The epithelial damage and releasing of antigens, which, in some circumstances, become autoantigens, underlay the pathogenesis of pSS. The activation of autoimmune processes in pSS leads to the hyperactivation of B cells with autoantibody production and other immunological phenomena such as hypergammaglobulinemia, production of cryoglobulins, or formation of extra-nodal lymphoid tissue. Among the risk factors for the development of this disease are viral infections, which themselves can activate autoimmune reactions and influence the host’s immune response. It is known that viruses, through various mechanisms, can influence the immune system and initiate autoimmune reactions. These mechanisms include molecular mimicry, bystander activation, production of superantigens—proteins encoded by viruses—or a programming to produce viral cytokines similar to host cytokines such as, e.g., interleukin-10. Of particular importance for pSS are viruses which not only, as expected, activate the interferon pathway but also play a particular role, directly or indirectly, in B cell activation or present tropism to organs also targeted in the course of pSS. This article is an attempt to present the current knowledge of the influence specific viruses have on the development and course of pSS.
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Zhang W, Wu P, Yin R, Sun M, Zhang R, Liao X, Lin Y, Lu H. Mendelian Randomization Analysis Suggests No Associations of Herpes Simplex Virus Infections With Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:817067. [PMID: 35299622 PMCID: PMC8920987 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.817067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested an association between infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV) and liability to multiple sclerosis (MS), but it remains largely unknown whether the effect is causal. We performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to explore the relationship between genetically predicted HSV infection and MS risk. Genetic instrumental variables for diagnosed infections with HSV (p < 5 × 10–6) were retrieved from the FinnGen study, and single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with circulating immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels of HSV-1 and HSV-2 and corresponding summary-level statistics of MS were obtained from genome-wide association studies of the European-ancestry. Inverse-variance weighted MR was employed as the primary method and multiple sensitivity analyses were performed. Genetically proxied infection with HSV was not associated with the risk of MS (odds ratio [OR], 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90–1.02; p = 0.22) per one-unit increase in log-OR of herpes viral infections. MR results provided no evidence for the relationship between circulating HSV-1 IgG levels and MS risks (OR = 0.91; 95% CI, 0.81–1.03; p = 0.37), and suggested no causal effect of HSV-2 IgG (OR = 1.04; 95% CI, 0.96–1.13; p = 0.32). Additional sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these null findings. The MR study did not support the causal relationship between genetic susceptibly to HSV and MS in the European population. Further studies are still warranted to provide informative knowledge, and triangulating evidence across multiple lines of evidence are necessary to plan interventions for the treatment and prevention of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Zhang
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Pengfei Wu
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
- School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rui Yin
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Meichen Sun
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Rongsen Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoyao Liao
- College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Yuhong Lin
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Lu
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hui Lu,
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Berger JR, Kakara M. The Elimination of Circulating Epstein-Barr Virus Infected B Cells Underlies Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibody Activity in Multiple Sclerosis: A Hypothesis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 59:103678. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Jakhmola S, Upadhyay A, Jain K, Mishra A, Jha HC. Herpesviruses and the hidden links to Multiple Sclerosis neuropathology. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 358:577636. [PMID: 34174587 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Herpesviruses like Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus (HHV)-6, HHV-1, VZV, and human endogenous retroviruses, have an age-old clinical association with multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an autoimmune disease of the nervous system wherein the myelin sheath deteriorates. The most popular mode of virus mediated immune system manipulation is molecular mimicry. Numerous herpesvirus antigens are similar to myelin proteins. Other mechanisms described here include the activity of cytokines and autoantibodies produced by the autoreactive T and B cells, respectively, viral déjà vu, epitope spreading, CD46 receptor engagement, impaired remyelination etc. Overall, this review addresses the host-parasite association of viruses with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Jakhmola
- Infection Bioengineering Group, Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, India
| | - Arun Upadhyay
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur, India
| | - Khushboo Jain
- Infection Bioengineering Group, Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, India
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur, India
| | - Hem Chandra Jha
- Infection Bioengineering Group, Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, India.
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Bello-Morales R, Andreu S, Ripa I, López-Guerrero JA. HSV-1 and Endogenous Retroviruses as Risk Factors in Demyelination. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115738. [PMID: 34072259 PMCID: PMC8199333 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a neurotropic alphaherpesvirus that can infect the peripheral and central nervous systems, and it has been implicated in demyelinating and neurodegenerative processes. Transposable elements (TEs) are DNA sequences that can move from one genomic location to another. TEs have been linked to several diseases affecting the central nervous system (CNS), including multiple sclerosis (MS), a demyelinating disease of unknown etiology influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Exogenous viral transactivators may activate certain retrotransposons or class I TEs. In this context, several herpesviruses have been linked to MS, and one of them, HSV-1, might act as a risk factor by mediating processes such as molecular mimicry, remyelination, and activity of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs). Several herpesviruses have been involved in the regulation of human ERVs (HERVs), and HSV-1 in particular can modulate HERVs in cells involved in MS pathogenesis. This review exposes current knowledge about the relationship between HSV-1 and human ERVs, focusing on their contribution as a risk factor for MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Bello-Morales
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.A.); (I.R.); (J.A.L.-G.)
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Sabina Andreu
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.A.); (I.R.); (J.A.L.-G.)
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés Ripa
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.A.); (I.R.); (J.A.L.-G.)
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Antonio López-Guerrero
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.A.); (I.R.); (J.A.L.-G.)
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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13
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Ruprecht K. The role of Epstein-Barr virus in the etiology of multiple sclerosis: a current review. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2020; 16:1143-1157. [PMID: 33152255 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.1847642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. While its exact etiology is unknown, it is generally believed that MS is caused by environmental triggers in genetically predisposed individuals. Strong and consistent evidence suggests a key role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a B lymphotropic human gammaherpesvirus, in the etiology of MS. Areas covered: This review summarizes recent developments in the field of EBV and MS with a focus on potential mechanisms underlying the role of EBV in MS. PubMed was searched for the terms 'Epstein-Barr virus' and 'multiple sclerosis'. Expert opinion: The current evidence is compatible with the working hypothesis that MS is a rare complication of EBV infection. Under the premise of a causative role of EBV in MS, it needs to be postulated that EBV causes a specific, and likely persistent, change(s) that is necessarily required for the development of MS. However, although progress has been made, the nature of that change and thus the precise mechanism explaining the role of EBV in MS remain elusive. The mechanism of EBV in MS therefore is a pressing question, whose clarification may substantially advance the pathophysiological understanding, rational therapies, and prevention of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klemens Ruprecht
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health , Berlin, Germany
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Torkildsen Ø, Myhr KM, Skogen V, Steffensen LH, Bjørnevik K. Tenofovir as a treatment option for multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 46:102569. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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15
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Bello-Morales R, Andreu S, López-Guerrero JA. The Role of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Infection in Demyelination of the Central Nervous System. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145026. [PMID: 32708697 PMCID: PMC7404202 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) is a neurotropic virus that infects the peripheral and central nervous systems. After primary infection in epithelial cells, HSV-1 spreads retrogradely to the peripheral nervous system (PNS), where it establishes a latent infection in the trigeminal ganglia (TG). The virus can reactivate from the latent state, traveling anterogradely along the axon and replicating in the local surrounding tissue. Occasionally, HSV-1 may spread trans-synaptically from the TG to the brainstem, from where it may disseminate to higher areas of the central nervous system (CNS). It is not completely understood how HSV-1 reaches the CNS, although the most accepted idea is retrograde transport through the trigeminal or olfactory tracts. Once in the CNS, HSV-1 may induce demyelination, either as a direct trigger or as a risk factor, modulating processes such as remyelination, regulation of endogenous retroviruses, or molecular mimicry. In this review, we describe the current knowledge about the involvement of HSV-1 in demyelination, describing the pathways used by this herpesvirus to spread throughout the CNS and discussing the data that suggest its implication in demyelinating processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Bello-Morales
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.A.); (J.A.L.-G.)
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Sabina Andreu
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.A.); (J.A.L.-G.)
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Antonio López-Guerrero
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.A.); (J.A.L.-G.)
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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16
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Devanand DP, Andrews H, Kreisl WC, Razlighi Q, Gershon A, Stern Y, Mintz A, Wisniewski T, Acosta E, Pollina J, Katsikoumbas M, Bell KL, Pelton GH, Deliyannides D, Prasad KM, Huey ED. Antiviral therapy: Valacyclovir Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease (VALAD) Trial: protocol for a randomised, double-blind,placebo-controlled, treatment trial. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e032112. [PMID: 32034019 PMCID: PMC7045215 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-032112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION After infection, herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV1) becomes latent in the trigeminal ganglion and can enter the brain via retrograde axonal transport. Recurrent reactivation of HSV1 may lead to neurodegeneration and Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. HSV1 (oral herpes) and HSV2 (genital herpes) can trigger amyloid beta-protein (Aβ) aggregation and HSV1 DNA is common in amyloid plaques. Anti-HSV drugs reduce Aβ and phosphorylated tau accumulation in cell-culture models. Cognitive impairment is greater in patients with HSV seropositive, and antiviral drugs show robust efficacy against peripheral HSV infection. Recent studies of electronic health records databases demonstrate that HSV infections increase dementia risk, and that antiviral medication treatment reduces this risk. The generic antiviral drug valacyclovir was superior to placebo in improving memory in a schizophrenia pilot trial but has not been tested in AD. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In patients with mild AD who test positive for HSV1 or HSV2 serum antibodies, valacyclovir, repurposed as an anti-AD drug, will be compared with placebo (lactose pills) in 130 patients (65 valacyclovir and 65 placebo) in a randomised, double-blind, 78-week phase II proof-of-concept trial. Patients on valacyclovir, dose-titrated from 2 g to a targeted oral dose of 4 g daily, compared with placebo, are hypothesised to show smaller cognitive and functional decline, and, using 18F-Florbetapir positron emission tomography (PET) and 18F-MK-6240 PET imaging, to show less amyloid and tau accumulation, respectively. In the lumbar puncture subsample, cerebrospinal fluid acyclovir will be assayed to assess central nervous system valacyclovir penetration. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The trial is being overseen by the New York State Psychiatric Institute Institutional Review Board (protocol 7537), the National Institute on Ageing, and the Data Safety Monitoring Board. Written informed consent is obtained for all subjects. Results will be disseminated via publication, clinicaltrials.gov, media and conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov identifier (NCT03282916) Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P Devanand
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - Howard Andrews
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - William C Kreisl
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - Qolamreza Razlighi
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - Anne Gershon
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yaakov Stern
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - Akiva Mintz
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Thomas Wisniewski
- Center for Cognitive Neurology, Departments of Neurology, New York University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Edward Acosta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Julianna Pollina
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mariasofia Katsikoumbas
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Karen L Bell
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gregory H Pelton
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Deborah Deliyannides
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - K M Prasad
- Departments of Psychiatry and Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Edward D Huey
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Viruses, particularly herpes simplex virus (HSV), may be a cause of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The evidence supporting the viral hypothesis suggests that antiviral treatment trials, which have not been conducted, are warranted. RECENT FINDINGS HSV1 (oral herpes) and HSV2 (genital herpes) can trigger amyloid aggregation, and their DNA is common in amyloid plaques. HSV1 reactivation is associated with tau hyperphosphorylation and possibly tau propagation. Anti-HSV drugs reduce Aβ and p-tau accumulation in infected mouse brains. Clinically, after the initial oral infection, herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV1) becomes latent in the trigeminal ganglion and recurrent reactivation may produce neuronal damage and AD pathology. Clinical studies show cognitive impairment in HSV seropositive patients, and antiviral drugs show strong efficacy against HSV. An antiviral treatment trial in AD is clearly warranted. A phase II treatment trial with valacyclovir, an anti-HSV drug, recently began with evaluation of clinical and biomarker outcomes.
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Kearns PKA, Casey HA, Leach JP. Hypothesis: Multiple sclerosis is caused by three-hits, strictly in order, in genetically susceptible persons. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2018; 24:157-174. [PMID: 30015080 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2018.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic, progressive and debilitating neurological disease which, despite extensive study for over 100 years, remains of enigmatic aetiology. Drawn from the epidemiological evidence, there exists a consensus that there are environmental (possibly infectious) factors that contribute to disease pathogenesis that have not yet been fully elucidated. Here we propose a three-tiered hypothesis: 1) a clinic-epidemiological model of multiple sclerosis as a rare late complication of two sequential infections (with the temporal sequence of infections being important); 2) a proposal that the first event is helminthic infection with Enterobius Vermicularis, and the second is Epstein Barr Virus infection; and 3) a proposal for a testable biological mechanism, involving T-Cell exhaustion for Epstein-Barr Virus protein LMP2A. We believe that this model satisfies some of the as-yet unexplained features of multiple sclerosis epidemiology, is consistent with the clinical and neuropathological features of the disease and is potentially testable by experiment. This model may be generalizable to other autoimmune diseases.
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19
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Lycke J. Trials of antivirals in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Acta Neurol Scand 2017; 136 Suppl 201:45-48. [PMID: 29068492 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that human herpes viruses and human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) are involved in the aetiology and pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). In order to acquire the ultimate evidence to confirm such a relationship, it is probably required to use specific antiviral drugs in clinical trials of MS. The results of published antiviral clinical trials in patients with MS are summarized in this review. None of them showed statistically significant effects on primary outcomes of disease activity or on disability development. However, given their small sample sizes, the strong trends and effects observed in subgroup analysis of antiherpes virus treatment in patients with MS warrant further studies. The possible involvement of HERV in MS is intriguing, and drugs have been developed that could reduce the impact of HERV in MS. However, larger studies are needed as the phase I and II trials were not designed to show clinical efficacy in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Lycke
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience; Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology at Sahlgrenska Academy; University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
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20
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Tao C, Simpson S, Taylor BV, van der Mei I. Association between human herpesvirus & human endogenous retrovirus and MS onset & progression. J Neurol Sci 2016; 372:239-249. [PMID: 28017222 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2016.11.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses the role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human herpesvirus 6 (HHV6) and human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in the onset and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). Although EBV has been established as one of the causal factors in MS onset, its role in MS progression is still uncertain. Moreover, interactions between EBV and other risk factor on MS development still need more investment. With less consistent evidence than EBV, HHV6 has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of MS; moreover, it showed a closer connection with the disease activity. Recent studies found that HERVs were associated with the development and progression of MS. Some antiviral treatments have shown promise for clinical interventions in the future. Future studies are yet needed to fully clarify the role of these agents in MS onset and disease course and the modes by which they realise these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunrong Tao
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Steve Simpson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Ingrid van der Mei
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Australia.
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21
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Wu JJ, Brentjens MH, Torres G, Yeung–Yue K, Lee P, Tyring SK. Valacyclovir in the Treatment of Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster, and other Viral Infections. J Cutan Med Surg 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/120347540300700502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: Genital herpes and herpes labialis are prevalent, physically and pychologically painful, and often disabling. Herpes zoster is often very painful and may result in months or years of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Over the past two decades, the treatment of these conditions has been transformed by guanosine nucleoside antivirals such as valacyclovir (Valtrex®), a highly bioavailable prodrug of acyclovir (Zovirax®), and famciclovir (Famvir®), a highly bioavailable prodrug of penciclovir (Denavir®). Objective: We describe the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical efficacy of valacyclovir for the treatment of herpes simplex, herpes zoster, and other viral infections. Valacyclovir is also compared with acyclovir and famciclovir. Methods: All published literature containing the word “valacyclovir” was reviewed and summarized. Results: Valacyclovir is the only oral antiviral agent approved for therapy of herpes labialis, the only antiviral drug approved for a 3-day course in the episodic treatment of recurrent genital herpes, as well as the only antiviral drug approved for once daily dosing for suppressive therapy. In herpes zoster, valacyclovir is more effective than acyclovir and equally effective as famciclovir at hastening the healing of zoster-associated pain and PHN. Conclusion: Valacyclovir is safe and effective in the therapy of patients with herpes simplex and herpes zoster and may be useful in other viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jashin J. Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mathijs H. Brentjens
- Departments of Dermatology, Microbiology/Immunology and Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Gisela Torres
- Departments of Dermatology, Microbiology/Immunology and Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Kimberly Yeung–Yue
- Departments of Dermatology, Microbiology/Immunology and Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Patricia Lee
- Departments of Dermatology, Microbiology/Immunology and Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Stephen K. Tyring
- Departments of Dermatology, Microbiology/Immunology and Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
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22
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Christensen T. Human endogenous retroviruses in neurologic disease. APMIS 2016; 124:116-26. [DOI: 10.1111/apm.12486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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23
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Kneider M, Lisovskaja V, Lycke J, Malmeström C, Jakobsen JK, Nerman O, Andersen O. Upper Respiratory Infections and MRI Activity in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. Neuroepidemiology 2015; 45:83-9. [PMID: 26316226 DOI: 10.1159/000437371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although clinical reports have suggested a relationship between systemic infections and multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses, MRI evidence supporting an association is conflicting. Here we evaluated the temporal relationship between upper respiratory infections (URIs) and MRI activity in relapsing-remitting (RR) MS. METHODS We combined individual data on URI with data on active lesions in pre-scheduled MRI examinations performed every 4 weeks for 28 weeks in 69 patients. A 4-week at-risk (AR) period started, by definition, 1 week before the onset of a URI. We recorded the relationship between the number of active lesions in each MRI with (1) the number of days of AR time in the immediately preceding 4-week period and (2) the number of days passed since the onset of a preceding URI. RESULTS Average MRI lesions/day showed no difference between AR (0.0764) and not-AR (0.0774) periods. The number of lesions in 483 pre-scheduled MRI examinations did not correlate with the AR proportion in the prior 4-week period (rho = -0.03), and time from URI onset did not correlate with lesion number on the next MRI examination (rho = 0.003). CONCLUSION The occurrence of a URI did not increase the risk of MRI activity evaluated in an adjacent 4-week window in RRMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kneider
- Section of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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24
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Stellmann JP, Stürner KH, Young KL, Siemonsen S, Friede T, Heesen C. Regression to the mean and predictors of MRI disease activity in RRMS placebo cohorts--is there a place for baseline-to-treatment studies in MS? PLoS One 2015; 10:e0116559. [PMID: 25659100 PMCID: PMC4319835 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0116559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gadolinium-enhancing (GD+) lesions and T2 lesions are MRI outcomes for phase-2 treatment trials in relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). Little is known about predictors of lesion development and regression-to-the-mean, which is an important aspect in early baseline-to-treatment trials. Objectives To quantify regression-to-the-mean and identify predictors of MRI lesion development in placebo cohorts. Methods 21 Phase-2 and Phase-3 trials were identified by a systematic literature research. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to estimate development of T2 and GD+ after 6 months (phase-2) or 2 years (phase-3). Predictors of lesion development were evaluated with mixed-effect meta-regression. Results The mean number of GD+-lesions per scan was similar after 6 months (1.19, 95%CI: 0.87-1.51) and 2 years (1.19, 95%CI: 1.00-1.39). 39% of the patients were without new T2-lesion after 6 month and 19% after 2 years (95%CI: 12-25%). Mean number of baseline GD+-lesions was the best predictor for new lesions after 6 months. Conclusion Baseline GD-enhancing lesions predict evolution of Gd- and T2 lesions after 6 months and might be used to control for regression to the mean effects. Overall, proof-of-concept studies with a baseline to treatment design have to face a regression to 1.2 GD+lesions per scan within 6 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Patrick Stellmann
- Institute for Neuroimmunology and MS (inims) and Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Klarissa Hanja Stürner
- Institute for Neuroimmunology and MS (inims) and Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kim Lea Young
- Institute for Neuroimmunology and MS (inims) and Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Siemonsen
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tim Friede
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institute for Neuroimmunology and MS (inims) and Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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25
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Jons D, Sundström P, Andersen O. Targeting Epstein-Barr virus infection as an intervention against multiple sclerosis. Acta Neurol Scand 2015; 131:69-79. [PMID: 25208981 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
We here review contemporary data on genetic and environmental risk factors, particularly Epstein-Barr virus infection, for multiple sclerosis. There is an important immunogenetic etiological factor for multiple sclerosis. However, a general assumption is that immune defense genes are activated by the environment, basically by infections. We contend that the relationship between infectious mononucleosis and multiple sclerosis cannot be completely explained by genetics and inverse causality. Epstein-Barr infection as indicated by positive serology is an obligatory precondition for multiple sclerosis, which is a stronger attribute than a risk factor only. Data on events in the early pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis are cumulating from bio-banks with presymptomatic specimens, but there is only little information from the critical age when Epstein-Barr infection including infectious mononucleosis is acquired, nor on the detailed immunological consequences of this infection in individuals with and without multiple sclerosis. We discuss how focused bio-banking may elaborate a rationale for the development of treatment or vaccination against Epstein-Barr virus infection. A cohort in which intervention against Epstein-Barr infections was performed should be the object of neurological follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Jons
- Section of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation; Institution of Neuroscience and Physiology; the Sahlgrenska Academy; University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
| | - P. Sundström
- Section of Neurology; Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience; University of Umeå; Umeå Sweden
| | - O. Andersen
- Section of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation; Institution of Neuroscience and Physiology; the Sahlgrenska Academy; University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
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26
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Abstract
Although a role of EBV in autoimmunity is biologically plausible and evidence of altered immune responses to EBV is abundant in several autoimmune diseases, inference on causality requires the determination that disease risk is higher in individuals infected with EBV than in those uninfected and that in the latter it increases following EBV infection. This determination has so far been possible only for multiple sclerosis (MS) and, to some extent, for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), whereas evidence is either lacking or not supportive for other autoimmune conditions. In this chapter, we present the main epidemiological findings that justify the conclusion that EBV is a component cause of MS and SLE and possible mechanisms underlying these effects.
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27
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Annibali V, Mechelli R, Romano S, Buscarinu MC, Fornasiero A, Umeton R, Ricigliano VAG, Orzi F, Coccia EM, Salvetti M, Ristori G. IFN-β and multiple sclerosis: from etiology to therapy and back. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2014; 26:221-8. [PMID: 25466632 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2014.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Several immunomodulatory treatments are currently available for relapsing-remitting forms of multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Interferon beta (IFN) was the first therapeutic intervention able to modify the course of the disease and it is still the most used first-line treatment in RRMS. Though two decades have passed since IFN-β was introduced in the management of MS, it remains a valid approach because of its good benefit/risk profile. This is witnessed by new efforts of pharmaceutical industry to improve this line: a PEGylated form of subcutaneous IFN-β 1a, (Plegridy(®)) with a longer half-life, has been recently approved in RRMS. This review will survey the various stages of the use of type I IFN in MS, with special attention to the effect of the treatment on the supposed viral etiologic factors associated to the disease. The antiviral activities of IFN (that initially prompted its use as immunomodulatory agent in MS), and the mounting evidences in favor of a viral etiology in MS, allowed us to outline a re-appraisal from etiology to therapy and back.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Annibali
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - R Mechelli
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - S Romano
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - M C Buscarinu
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - A Fornasiero
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - R Umeton
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - V A G Ricigliano
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy; Neuroimmunology Unit, Fondazione Santa Lucia-I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy
| | - F Orzi
- Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - E M Coccia
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Salvetti
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - G Ristori
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Neurology and Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
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28
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Pender MP, Burrows SR. Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis: potential opportunities for immunotherapy. Clin Transl Immunology 2014; 3:e27. [PMID: 25505955 PMCID: PMC4237030 DOI: 10.1038/cti.2014.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2014] [Revised: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) causing progressive disability. Many observations implicate Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) in the pathogenesis of MS, namely universal EBV seropositivity, high anti-EBV antibody levels, alterations in EBV-specific CD8+ T-cell immunity, increased spontaneous EBV-induced transformation of peripheral blood B cells, increased shedding of EBV from saliva and accumulation of EBV-infected B cells and plasma cells in the brain. Several mechanisms have been postulated to explain the role of EBV in the development of MS including cross-reactivity between EBV and CNS antigens, bystander damage to the CNS by EBV-specific CD8+ T cells, activation of innate immunity by EBV-encoded small RNA molecules in the CNS, expression of αB-crystallin in EBV-infected B cells leading to a CD4+ T-cell response against oligodendrocyte-derived αB-crystallin and EBV infection of autoreactive B cells, which produce pathogenic autoantibodies and provide costimulatory survival signals to autoreactive T cells in the CNS. The rapidly accumulating evidence for a pathogenic role of EBV in MS provides ground for optimism that it might be possible to prevent and cure MS by effectively controlling EBV infection through vaccination, antiviral drugs or treatment with EBV-specific cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. Adoptive immunotherapy with in vitro-expanded autologous EBV-specific CD8+ T cells directed against viral latent proteins was recently used to treat a patient with secondary progressive MS. Following the therapy, there was clinical improvement, decreased disease activity on magnetic resonance imaging and reduced intrathecal immunoglobulin production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Pender
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, QLD, Australia ; Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital , Brisbane, QLD, Australia ; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute , Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Scott R Burrows
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, QLD, Australia ; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute , Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Broadley SA, Barnett MH, Boggild M, Brew BJ, Butzkueven H, Heard R, Hodgkinson S, Kermode AG, Lechner-Scott J, Macdonell RAL, Marriott M, Mason DF, Parratt J, Reddel SW, Shaw CP, Slee M, Spies J, Taylor BV, Carroll WM, Kilpatrick TJ, King J, McCombe PA, Pollard JD, Willoughby E. Therapeutic approaches to disease modifying therapy for multiple sclerosis in adults: an Australian and New Zealand perspective: part 1 historical and established therapies. MS Neurology Group of the Australian and New Zealand Association of Neurologists. J Clin Neurosci 2014; 21:1835-46. [PMID: 24993135 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2014.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially life-changing immune mediated disease of the central nervous system. Until recently, treatment has been largely confined to acute treatment of relapses, symptomatic therapies and rehabilitation. Through persistent efforts of dedicated physicians and scientists around the globe for 160 years, a number of therapies that have an impact on the long term outcome of the disease have emerged over the past 20 years. In this three part series we review the practicalities, benefits and potential hazards of each of the currently available and emerging treatment options for MS. We pay particular attention to ways of abrogating the risks of these therapies and provide advice on the most appropriate indications for using individual therapies. In Part 1 we review the history of the development of MS therapies and its connection with the underlying immunobiology of the disease. The established therapies for MS are reviewed in detail and their current availability and indications in Australia and New Zealand are summarised. We examine the evidence to support their use in the treatment of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon A Broadley
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, QLD 4222, Australia; Department of Neurology, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, QLD, Australia.
| | - Michael H Barnett
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Mike Boggild
- Department of Neurology, The Townsville Hospital, Douglas, QLD, Australia
| | - Bruce J Brew
- Department of Neurology and St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, St Vincent's Hospital, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Melbourne Brain Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert Heard
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Suzanne Hodgkinson
- South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, NSW, Australia
| | - Allan G Kermode
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, University of Western Australia, WA, Australia; Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, WA, Australia
| | | | | | - Mark Marriott
- Melbourne Brain Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Deborah F Mason
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - John Parratt
- Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen W Reddel
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Mark Slee
- Centre for Neuroscience and Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders University, SA, Australia
| | - Judith Spies
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, TAS, Australia
| | - William M Carroll
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, University of Western Australia, WA, Australia
| | | | - John King
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Pamela A McCombe
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, QLD, Australia
| | - John D Pollard
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Ernest Willoughby
- Department of Neurology, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
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Ding Z, Mathur V, Ho PP, James ML, Lucin KM, Hoehne A, Alabsi H, Gambhir SS, Steinman L, Luo J, Wyss-Coray T. Antiviral drug ganciclovir is a potent inhibitor of microglial proliferation and neuroinflammation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 211:189-98. [PMID: 24493798 PMCID: PMC3920559 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20120696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant microglial responses contribute to neuroinflammation in many neurodegenerative diseases, but no current therapies target pathogenic microglia. We discovered unexpectedly that the antiviral drug ganciclovir (GCV) inhibits the proliferation of microglia in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model for multiple sclerosis (MS), as well as in kainic acid-induced excitotoxicity. In EAE, GCV largely prevented infiltration of T lymphocytes into the central nervous system (CNS) and drastically reduced disease incidence and severity when delivered before the onset of disease. In contrast, GCV treatment had minimal effects on peripheral leukocyte distribution in EAE and did not inhibit generation of antibodies after immunization with ovalbumin. Additionally, a radiolabeled analogue of penciclovir, [(18)F]FHBG, which is similar in structure to GCV, was retained in areas of CNS inflammation in EAE, but not in naive control mice, consistent with the observed therapeutic effects. Our experiments suggest GCV may have beneficial effects in the CNS beyond its antiviral properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoqing Ding
- Stanford, Department of Radiology; Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A Hill
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Nagagopal Venna
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Pakpoor J, Giovannoni G, Ramagopalan SV. Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis: association or causation? Expert Rev Neurother 2013; 13:287-97. [PMID: 23448218 DOI: 10.1586/ern.13.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a multifactorial disease in which both genetic and environmental factors and their interactions underlie causation. The current evidence base supports a strong association between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and MS, but potential causality remains strongly debated. It is not possible to exclude the possibility that an abnormal response to EBV infection is a consequence, rather than a cause, of the underlying pathophysiology of MS, or indeed that the association may be a reflection of a similar underlying disease mechanism. Substantial experimental progress is necessary to achieve consistency of molecular findings to complement the strong epidemiological association between EBV and MS, which cannot alone show causation. Collectively, the strength of the association between EBV and MS warrants careful development and trial of anti-EBV drugs to observe any effect on MS disease course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Pakpoor
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics and Medical Research Council Functional Genomics Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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35
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Angelini DF, Serafini B, Piras E, Severa M, Coccia EM, Rosicarelli B, Ruggieri S, Gasperini C, Buttari F, Centonze D, Mechelli R, Salvetti M, Borsellino G, Aloisi F, Battistini L. Increased CD8+ T cell response to Epstein-Barr virus lytic antigens in the active phase of multiple sclerosis. PLoS Pathog 2013; 9:e1003220. [PMID: 23592979 PMCID: PMC3623710 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1003220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
It has long been known that multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with an increased Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) seroprevalence and high immune reactivity to EBV and that infectious mononucleosis increases MS risk. This evidence led to postulate that EBV infection plays a role in MS etiopathogenesis, although the mechanisms are debated. This study was designed to assess the prevalence and magnitude of CD8+ T-cell responses to EBV latent (EBNA-3A, LMP-2A) and lytic (BZLF-1, BMLF-1) antigens in relapsing-remitting MS patients (n = 113) and healthy donors (HD) (n = 43) and to investigate whether the EBV-specific CD8+ T cell response correlates with disease activity, as defined by clinical evaluation and gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. Using HLA class I pentamers, lytic antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses were detected in fewer untreated inactive MS patients than in active MS patients and HD while the frequency of CD8+ T cells specific for EBV lytic and latent antigens was higher in active and inactive MS patients, respectively. In contrast, the CD8+ T cell response to cytomegalovirus did not differ between HD and MS patients, irrespective of the disease phase. Marked differences in the prevalence of EBV-specific CD8+ T cell responses were observed in patients treated with interferon-β and natalizumab, two licensed drugs for relapsing-remitting MS. Longitudinal studies revealed expansion of CD8+ T cells specific for EBV lytic antigens during active disease in untreated MS patients but not in relapse-free, natalizumab-treated patients. Analysis of post-mortem MS brain samples showed expression of the EBV lytic protein BZLF-1 and interactions between cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and EBV lytically infected plasma cells in inflammatory white matter lesions and meninges. We therefore propose that inability to control EBV infection during inactive MS could set the stage for intracerebral viral reactivation and disease relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barbara Serafini
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Piras
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Fondazione Santa Lucia, (I.R.C.C.S.), Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Severa
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Eliana M. Coccia
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Rosicarelli
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Ruggieri
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Gasperini
- Department of Neurosciences, S Camillo Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Buttari
- Department of Neurosciences, University Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Diego Centonze
- Department of Neurosciences, University Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosella Mechelli
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies, S. Andrea Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Salvetti
- Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies, S. Andrea Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Aloisi
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Battistini
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Fondazione Santa Lucia, (I.R.C.C.S.), Rome, Italy
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Frau J, Cossu D, Coghe G, Lorefice L, Fenu G, Melis M, Paccagnini D, Sardu C, Murru MR, Tranquilli S, Marrosu MG, Sechi LA, Cocco E. Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis and multiple sclerosis in Sardinian patients: epidemiology and clinical features. Mult Scler 2013; 19:1437-42. [PMID: 23439580 DOI: 10.1177/1352458513477926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is an infectious factor recently found in association with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Sardinia. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to confirm this association and evaluate its role in clinical features. METHODS A total of 436 patients and 264 healthy controls (HCs) were included. We examined the blood of each individual for MAPDNA and MAP2694 antibodies using IS900-specific PCR and ELISA, respectively. Differences in MAP presence between the MS group and HCs were evaluated. In MS patients, we considered: gender, age, age at onset, duration of disease, course, EDSS, therapy, relapse/steroids at study time, and oligoclonal bands (OBs). RESULTS MAPDNA and MAP2694 antibodies were detected in 68 MS and six HCs (p = 1.14 × 10(-11)), and 123 MS and 10 HCs (p = 2.59 × 10(-23)), respectively. OBs were found with reduced frequency in MAP-positive patients (OR = 0.52; p = 0.02). MAP2694 antibodies were detected more in patients receiving MS treatments (OR = 2.26; p = 0.01), and MAPDNA in subjects on steroids (OR = 2.65; p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Our study confirmed the association of MAP and MS in Sardinia. The low OB frequency in MAP patients suggests a peripheral role as a trigger in autoimmunity. MAP positivity might be influenced by steroids and MS therapy. Studies in other populations are needed to confirm the role of MAP in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Frau
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Public Health, Clinical and Molecular Medicine, University of Cagliari, Italy
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Sternberg Z. Autonomic dysfunction: A unifying multiple sclerosis theory, linking chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency, vitamin D3, and Epstein-Barr virus. Autoimmun Rev 2012; 12:250-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2012.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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38
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Virtanen JO, Jacobson S. Viruses and multiple sclerosis. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2012; 11:528-44. [PMID: 22583435 DOI: 10.2174/187152712801661220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2012] [Revised: 04/13/2012] [Accepted: 04/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a heterogeneous disease that develops as an interplay between the immune system and environmental stimuli in genetically susceptible individuals. There is increasing evidence that viruses may play a role in MS pathogenesis acting as these environmental triggers. However, it is not known if any single virus is causal, or rather several viruses can act as triggers in disease development. Here, we review the association of different viruses to MS with an emphasis on two herpesviruses, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6). These two agents have generated the most impact during recent years as possible co-factors in MS disease development. The strongest argument for association of EBV with MS comes from the link between symptomatic infectious mononucleosis and MS and from seroepidemiological studies. In contrast to EBV, HHV-6 has been found significantly more often in MS plaques than in MS normal appearing white matter or non-MS brains and HHV-6 re-activation has been reported during MS clinical relapses. In this review we also suggest new strategies, including the development of new infectious animal models of MS and antiviral MS clinical trials, to elucidate roles of different viruses in the pathogenesis of this disease. Furthermore, we introduce the idea of using unbiased sequence-independent pathogen discovery methodologies, such as next generation sequencing, to study MS brain tissue or body fluids for detection of known viral sequences or potential novel viral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jussi Oskari Virtanen
- Viral Immunology Section, Neuroimmunology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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39
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Chen YL, Tsai HL, Peng CW. EGCG debilitates the persistence of EBV latency by reducing the DNA binding potency of nuclear antigen 1. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 417:1093-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2011.12.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2011] [Accepted: 12/20/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Abstract
There is increasing evidence that infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) plays a role in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the CNS. This article provides a four-tier hypothesis proposing (1) EBV infection is essential for the development of MS; (2) EBV causes MS in genetically susceptible individuals by infecting autoreactive B cells, which seed the CNS where they produce pathogenic autoantibodies and provide costimulatory survival signals to autoreactive T cells that would otherwise die in the CNS by apoptosis; (3) the susceptibility to develop MS after EBV infection is dependent on a genetically determined quantitative deficiency of the cytotoxic CD8+ T cells that normally keep EBV infection under tight control; and (4) sunlight and vitamin D protect against MS by increasing the number of CD8+ T cells available to control EBV infection. The hypothesis makes predictions that can be tested, including the prevention and successful treatment of MS by controlling EBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Pender
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia.
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41
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Ulzheimer JC, Meuth SG, Bittner S, Kleinschnitz C, Kieseier BC, Wiendl H. Therapeutic approaches to multiple sclerosis: an update on failed, interrupted, or inconclusive trials of immunomodulatory treatment strategies. BioDrugs 2010; 24:249-74. [PMID: 20623991 DOI: 10.2165/11537160-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) continues to be a therapeutic challenge, and much effort is being made to develop new and more effective immune therapies. Particularly in the past decade, neuroimmunologic research has delivered new and highly effective therapeutic options, as seen in the growing number of immunotherapeutic agents and biologics in development. However, numerous promising clinical trials have failed to show efficacy or have had to be halted prematurely because of unexpected adverse events. Some others have shown results that are of unknown significance with regard to a reliable assessment of true efficacy versus safety. For example, studies of the highly innovative monoclonal antibodies that selectively target immunologic effector molecules have not only revealed the impressive efficacy of such treatments, they have also raised serious concerns about the safety profiles of these antibodies. These results add a new dimension to the estimation of risk-benefit ratios regarding acute or long-term adverse effects. Therapeutic approaches that have previously failed in MS have indicated that there are discrepancies between theoretical expectations and practical outcomes of different compounds. Learning from these defeats helps to optimize future study designs and to reduce the risks to patients. This review summarizes trials on MS treatments since 2001 that failed or were interrupted, attempts to analyze the underlying reasons for failure, and discusses the implications for our current view of MS pathogenesis, clinical practice, and design of future studies. In order to maintain clarity, this review focuses on anti-inflammatory therapies and does not include studies on already approved and effective disease-modifying therapies, albeit used in distinct administration routes or under different paradigms. Neuroprotective and alternative treatment strategies are presented elsewhere.
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Inusah S, Sormani MP, Cofield SS, Aban IB, Musani SK, Srinivasasainagendra V, Cutter GR. Assessing changes in relapse rates in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2010; 16:1414-21. [PMID: 20810517 DOI: 10.1177/1352458510379246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) annualized relapse rates (ARRs) in trials may be declining due to changes in diagnostic criteria, MS etiology, study criteria, and selection biases. This review examines if there is a trend in the ARR for relapsing-remitting MS patients (RRMS) over time and if so, why. A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Web of Science(®), and the Cochrane Library using electronic searches, screen scraping for abstracts, and hand searching of references for randomized trials conducted between 1960 and 2008. Out of 72 randomized trials, 56 (77.8%) defined relapse. This study uses 32 placebo relapsing-remitting studies out of the 37 (66.1%) with RRMS. The mean ARR for the treatment arms was 0.68 and the one for the placebo groups was 1.002. The year of publication was negatively associated with the ARR (p = 0.0001). The annual reduction amounts to 0.36 relapses over a 10-year period. Age and duration of symptoms were negatively associated with the ARR. Year of publication was significantly negatively associated with ARR after controlling for covariates. ARRs have fallen with relapse definition, entrance criteria remain important, but time exceeds all these variables and reflects two likely sources, selection of patients for trials by clinicians and rescue of patients truncating the number of multiple relapses. The impact of truncating the number of relapses on the falling rates is important, not only on the ARRs, but also on the impact of informative censoring in drop-outs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seidu Inusah
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Biostatistics, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-0022, USA
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43
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Epstein-barr virus infection and multiple sclerosis: a review. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2010; 5:271-7. [PMID: 20369303 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-010-9201-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2010] [Accepted: 03/05/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection results in a life-long persistence of the virus in the host's B-lymphocytes and has been associated with numerous cancers including Burkitt's lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. There is considerable evidence that EBV infection is a strong risk factor for the development of multiple sclerosis. Early age at primary EBV infection is typically asymptomatic, but primary infection during adolescence or adulthood often manifests as infectious mononucleosis, which has been associated with a two- to threefold increased risk of MS. Most importantly, MS risk is extremely low in individuals who are EBV negative, but it increases several folds following EBV infection. Additional evidence supporting a role for EBV in MS pathogenesis includes the observations of elevated antibodies to EBV antigens (especially EBV nuclear antigen-1) prior to the onset of MS, and an increased risk of MS among EBV-positive children. The biological mechanism by which EBV may cause MS is not known, but several possibilities are discussed.
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Ascherio A, Munger KL. Epidemiology of Multiple Sclerosis. MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS 3 2010. [PMCID: PMC7173578 DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4160-6068-0.00004-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
This chapter discusses the environmental factors associated to epidemiology of multiple sclerosis. The epidemiologic evidence points to three environmental risk factors—infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), low levels of vitamin D, and cigarette smoking—whose association with multiple sclerosis (MS) seems to satisfy in varying degrees most of the criteria that support causality, including temporality, strength, consistency, biologic gradient, and plausibility. None of these associations, however, has been tested experimentally in humans and only one––vitamin D deficiency is presently amenable to experimental interventions. The evidence, albeit more sparse and inconsistent, linking other environmental factors to MS risk are summarized. Epidemiologic clues to the hypothetical role of infection in MS are complex and often seem to point in opposite directions. The ecological studies, database/linkage analyses, and longitudinal studies of sunlight exposure and vitamin D are reviewed. Biologic mechanisms for smoking and increased risk of MS could be neurotoxic, immunomodulatory, vascular, or they could involve increased frequency and duration of respiratory infections. Some other possible risk factors include––diet and hepatitis B vaccine.
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Ahram M, El-Omar A, Baho Y, Lubad MA. Association between human herpesvirus 6 and occurrence of multiple sclerosis among Jordanian patients. Acta Neurol Scand 2009; 120:430-5. [PMID: 19519805 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2009.01187.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Multiple sclerosis (MS) is hypothesized to be caused by an infectious agent that initiates an autoimmune reaction. Among the infectious agents linked to MS is human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6). Due to the high occurrence of MS among Jordanian population and the deficiency of MS studies in Jordan, the prevalence of HHV-6 in sera and cerebrospinal fluids (CSFs) of 36 MS patients was investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS To increase the sensitivity of detection, nested polymerase chain reaction was utilized. RESULTS Although we were able to detect HHV-6 DNA in serum samples of 26% MS patients, no significant difference was found when compared to control individuals. In addition, lack of association between MS and presence of viral DNA in CSF samples was observed. Even within the analyzed MS patient population, an association of HHV-6 and MS in terms of gender, type of diagnosis, symptoms and disease score was not identified among Jordanian patients. CONCLUSIONS Although these results indicate lack of apparent association between HHV-6 to MS among Jordanian patients, heterogeneity related to genetic polymorphism as well as geographical distribution of the disease and of pathogens may be of significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ahram
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mu'tah University, PO Box 7, Mu'tah, Karak 61710, Jordan.
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Abstract
Recent seroepidemiologic and pathologic evidence suggests that prior infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may be necessary for the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). EBV infects more than 90% of all humans, most of whom remain healthy. In contrast, 99% of MS patients have evidence of prior infection with EBV. EBV infects resting B lymphocytes, immortalizing them into long-lived memory B cells that survive largely undetected by the immune system in the peripheral circulation. MS patients show elevated titers to EBV years before developing any neurologic symptoms. Postmortem pathologic analysis of brains of patients with MS has revealed diffuse EBV-associated B-cell dysregulation in all forms of MS. Theories of pathogenesis of EBV in MS include antigenic mimicry, immortalization of B-cell clones, and cytotoxic T-cell dysfunction against virally infected B cells. This article reviews the existing evidence of the relationship between EBV and MS and considers the therapeutic implication of this evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget A Bagert
- Department of Neurology, 1542 Tulane Avenue, Room 718B, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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Sormani MP, Bonzano L, Roccatagliata L, Cutter GR, Mancardi GL, Bruzzi P. Magnetic resonance imaging as a potential surrogate for relapses in multiple sclerosis: a meta-analytic approach. Ann Neurol 2009; 65:268-75. [PMID: 19334061 DOI: 10.1002/ana.21606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this work was to evaluate whether the treatment effects on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers at the trial level were able to predict the treatment effects on relapse rate in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. METHODS We used a pooled analysis of all the published randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis reporting data both on MRI variables and relapses. We extracted data on relapses and on MRI "active" lesions. A regression analysis weighted on trial size and duration was performed to study the relation between the treatment effect on relapses and the treatment effect on MRI lesions. We validated the estimated relation on an independent set of clinical trials satisfying the same inclusion criteria but with a control arm other than placebo. RESULTS A set of 23 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis was identified, for a total of 63 arms, 40 contrasts, and 6,591 patients. A strong correlation was found between the effect on the relapses and the effect on MRI activity. The adjusted R(2) value of the weighted regression line was 0.81. The regression equation estimated using the placebo-controlled trials gave a satisfactory prediction of the treatment effect on relapses when applied to the validation set. INTERPRETATION More than 80% of the variance in the effect on relapses between trials is explained by the variance in MRI effects. Smaller and shorter phase II studies based on MRI lesion end points may give indications also on the effect of the treatment on relapse end points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pia Sormani
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
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Pender MP. Preventing and curing multiple sclerosis by controlling Epstein-Barr virus infection. Autoimmun Rev 2009; 8:563-8. [PMID: 19254880 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2009.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2009] [Accepted: 01/23/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
It has been noted since 1981 that late primary infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in adolescence or young adulthood can account for the epidemiology of multiple sclerosis (MS), including the association with higher socio-economic status, the latitudinal variation in prevalence, the effects of migration on the risk of acquiring MS, and the occurrence of clusters and epidemics. Virtually all (>99%) people with MS are EBV seropositive, suggesting that EBV infection is essential for the development of MS. The EBV-infected autoreactive B-cell hypothesis of autoimmunity published in 2003 proposes that, in genetically susceptible individuals, EBV-infected autoreactive B cells seed the target organ where they produce pathogenic autoantibodies and provide costimulatory survival signals to autoreactive T cells. This hypothesis makes several predictions, some of which have been verified in the case of MS, namely: the presence of EBV-infected B cells in the central nervous system; a beneficial response to B-cell depletion with rituximab; and decreased CD8(+) T-cell immunity to EBV-infected B cells. The hypothesis also predicts that chronic autoimmune diseases will respond to treatment which controls EBV infection. Thus it is proposed that vaccination against EBV will prevent MS, and that effective antiviral drugs will inhibit disease progression in people with MS and potentially be curative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Pender
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Lincoln JA, Hankiewicz K, Cook SD. Could Epstein-Barr Virus or Canine Distemper Virus Cause Multiple Sclerosis? Neurol Clin 2008; 26:699-715, viii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2008.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Hayes CE, Donald Acheson E. A unifying multiple sclerosis etiology linking virus infection, sunlight, and vitamin D, through viral interleukin-10. Med Hypotheses 2008; 71:85-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2008.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2008] [Revised: 01/15/2008] [Accepted: 01/19/2008] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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