Immunological questions on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is considered an inflammatory autoimmune disorder. Approved immunotherapies are only moderately effective in reducing disease exacerbations and brain inflammation in a subset of patients. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has emerged in recent years as the first opportunity to offer to patients a radical, potentially curative treatment. Here, we will summarize key immunopathological aspects of MS and discuss important questions that need to be addressed to clarify the therapeutic role and mechanism of action of HSCT in this disorder.
Muraro
P A
PA
Neuroimmunology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bldg. 10, Room 5B16, 10 Center Dr MSC1400 Bethesda, MD 20892-1400, USA.
Martin
R
R
D000818:Animals; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D007107:Immune System / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D012038:Regeneration; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous