Emerging therapeutic targets in multiple sclerosis.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this review is to describe the recent findings regarding the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis and their translation to new therapies.


RESULTS
Basic research is providing new insights into the immune elements involved in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis, both in the periphery as well as in the central nervous system. Unveiling the complex interplay of the molecules involved in the immunological cascade of the disease supplies new targets for the development of new immunotherapeutic strategies. Similarly, clinical studies and identification of distinct subgroups of patients based on their responsiveness to immunotherapies provides support for the existence of immunopathological disease subtypes that seem to require different therapeutic approaches. These studies extend the theoretical basis that facilitates development of neuroprotective and repair-promoting therapeutic strategies.


CONCLUSIONS
The application of novel and cutting-edge technologies in the fields of genomics and proteomics is providing a better understanding of the genetic and environmental factors involved in multiple sclerosis susceptibility and progression, as well as the detection of biomarkers for disease activity and response to therapy. Implementation of these facilitates identification of new targets for therapy towards tailoring treatment to the individual patient with multiple sclerosis.
Fontoura
Paulo
P
Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, New University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.
Steinman
Lawrence
L
Miller
Ariel
A
D000941:Antigens / Q000276:immunology; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology; D002465:Cell Movement / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000378:metabolism; D007107:Immune System / Q000502:physiology; D050503:Indoleamine-Pyrrole 2,3,-Dioxygenase / Q000378:metabolism; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D009186:Myelin Sheath / Q000378:metabolism; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018160:Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear / Q000378:metabolism; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000502:physiology
D000941:Antigens; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; D050503:Indoleamine-Pyrrole 2,3,-Dioxygenase; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents; D018160:Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear