MAJOR T-CELL RESPONSES IN MULTIPLE-SCLEROSIS

Evidence is emerging that the major T- and B-cell response in multiple sclerosis (MS) is directed to a region of myelin basic protein (MBP) between residues 84 and 103. In rodent models of MS, immunization to t his component of MBP evokes experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). T cells found in EAE lesions show similarities in the VJ and VD J regions of their alpha and beta chains with T cells in MS lesions, a nd with T cells that are specific for MBPp84-103 isolated from patient s with MS. If this region of MBP is critical in the pathogenesis of MS , then therapy aimed at controlling the immune response to this immuno dominant region of MBP may be beneficial in treating MS.