Aberrant DNA methylation profile exacerbates inflammation and neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis patients

Journal of Neuroinflammation

Jordi Tomas-Roig¹  Naiara Celarain¹ 

[1] Girona Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit (UNIEM), Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital and Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI);

关键词: Multiple sclerosis;    DNA methylation;    Environmental risk factors;    Inflammation;    Neurodegeneration;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12974-019-1667-1

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system characterised by incoordination, sensory loss, weakness, changes in bladder capacity and bowel function, fatigue and cognitive impairment, creating a significant socioeconomic burden. The pathogenesis of MS involves both genetic susceptibility and exposure to distinct environmental risk factors. The gene x environment interaction is regulated by epigenetic mechanisms. Epigenetics refers to a complex system that modifies gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. The most studied epigenetic mechanism is DNA methylation. This epigenetic mark participates in distinct MS pathophysiological processes, including blood–brain barrier breakdown, inflammatory response, demyelination, remyelination failure and neurodegeneration. In this study, we also accurately summarised a list of environmental factors involved in the MS pathogenesis and its clinical course. A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE through PubMED and Scopus. In conclusion, an exhaustive study of DNA methylation might contribute towards new pharmacological interventions in MS by use of epigenetic drugs.

【 授权许可】

Unknown