CD8+ T Cell Response to Epstein-Barr Virus in Multiple Sclerosis
Author Information
Author(s): Michael Pender, Peter A Csurhes, Casey M M Pfluger, Scott R Burrows
Primary Institution: The University of Queensland
Hypothesis
A genetically determined defect in the elimination of EBV-infected B cells by cytotoxic CD8+ T cells might predispose to the development of MS.
Conclusion
The decreased CD8+ T cell response to EBV-infected B cells in MS patients is not due to decreased HLA class I expression on monocytes or B cells.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with MS have a decreased frequency of CD8+ T cells reactive to their own EBV-infected B cells.
- The levels of HLA class I and class II molecules expressed on T cells, B cells, and monocytes were normal in patients with MS.
- The percentage of CD8+ T cells was significantly decreased in MS patients compared to healthy subjects.
Takeaway
People with multiple sclerosis have fewer CD8+ T cells that can fight off a virus called Epstein-Barr, but this isn't because their cells are missing important markers called HLA class I.
Methodology
Flow cytometry was used to analyze T cells, natural killer cells, B cells, and monocytes in blood samples from healthy subjects and MS patients.
Limitations
The study did not measure absolute counts of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells.
Participant Demographics
{"healthy_controls":59,"ms_patients":62,"age_mean":{"healthy_controls":40.4,"ms_patients":45.5},"sex_percentage_female":{"healthy_controls":67.8,"ms_patients":69.3}}
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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