Steps Closer to the Possible Cause of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Research from the University of Toronto has taken us a step closer to understanding the cause of multiple sclerosis (MS). Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and damages the protective covering of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The immune system normally works to protect us from viruses or pathogens, but in the case of MS, we are not protected so the condition is caused by a deterioration of nerves.

Previous research has found that specific white blood cells, called lymphocytes, accumulate in tertiary lymphoid tissues (TLTs) in the brain of people with MS. Although the function of TLTs has been discovered, it is not yet clear how they form and remain in the brain.

The researchers found that TLTs were created by the presence of stromal cells, which produce complex fibers. These cells form nets in which T accumulates 17 cells (T cell type).

“While autoimmune disorders are an important part of the body's ability to retain infection and disease in autoimmune disorders, they can mistaken healthy tissue for potential threats and respond by lashing out, and causing damage. The team noted that this Th17 response was caused by the type of brain tissue inflammation associated with MS, ”explained the study's leader, Dr. Jen Gommerman.

Dr. explained. Gommerman, while the results do not fully explain the cause of multiple sclerosis, it does provide a clearer understanding of how the MS pathogen works. With further research we can continue to move closer to gaining a better understanding of multiple sclerosis in order to develop a cure.