M. Bergkvist et M. Sandberg-wollheim, Serological differences in monozygotic twin pairs discordant for multiple sclerosis, ACT NEUR SC, 104(5), 2001, pp. 262-265
Objectives - The etiology of MS is unknown but genetic factors are supporte
d by a high concordance in twins. Geographic distribution and migration stu
dies indicate, however, the importance of environmental factors. Material a
nd methods - We studied 3 pairs of genetically identical twins who had shar
ed the same environment but were discordant for MS. Serum samples were assa
yed for antibodies against 21 viruses, 4 bacteria and Toxoplasma gondii. Re
sults and conclusion No common factor present only in the affected twins wa
s identified but differences were found in serum titers against some neurot
ropic microorganisms. In general the serum titers were strikingly similar i
n the twins, indicating no major disturbances of the humoral immune system
in MS.