Early Immune System Signals May Hold the Key to Diagnosing and Preventing Multiple Sclerosis

Early Immune System Signals May Hold the Key to Diagnosing and Preventing Multiple Sclerosis

(IN BRIEF) Researchers from LMU have discovered that CD8-positive T cells, a type of immune cell, play a crucial role in the early stages of multiple sclerosis (MS). By studying identical twins, where one twin has MS and the other does not, the team identified specific changes in CD8 T cells in both MS patients and those at high risk of developing the disease. These cells show increased migration to the central nervous system (CNS) and contribute to inflammation. The findings suggest that these T cells could serve as early indicators of MS, opening up possibilities for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to detect and prevent the disease before symptoms arise.

(PRESS RELEASE) MUNICH, 30-Sep-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Researchers from LMU have identified that specific immune cells, known as CD8-positive T cells, play a critical role in the early stages of multiple sclerosis (MS). This discovery stems from a study conducted on monozygotic (identical) twins, in which one twin has MS while the other remains asymptomatic. By examining these twins, the team found that CD8 T cells display certain changes and increased migration abilities in both those with MS and individuals showing early signs of the disease, even before symptoms arise.

The study utilized advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and T cell receptor analysis to investigate blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from the twin pairs. The results revealed that CD8 T cells in MS patients are not merely by-products of inflammation but actively contribute to it. These cells show an increased capacity to migrate into the central nervous system (CNS), where they promote inflammation and cause lasting changes.

Interestingly, these altered T cells were also detected in individuals without symptoms but with signs of underlying inflammation, suggesting that CD8 T cells may be involved in the very early stages of MS development. The researchers believe that targeting these cells could pave the way for new therapeutic strategies, potentially slowing or preventing the progression of MS. Additionally, this discovery may lead to earlier diagnostic methods, helping detect MS before irreversible damage occurs.

Paper:

V. Kavaka et al.: Twin study identifies early immunological and metabolic dysregulation of CD8+ T cells in multiple sclerosis. Science Immunology

Media Contact:

PD Dr. med. Lisa Ann Gerdes
Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology
LMU University Hospital
LisaAnn.Gerdes@med.uni-muenchen.de

https://www.neuroimmunology-munich.de/our-labs/gerdes-lab-ms-twin-study/0110b5938ea4c956

SOURCE: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich