Antigen-specific therapies in multiple sclerosis.
BACKGROUND
If found to be effective, antigen-specific therapies in MS hold the promise of selectively targeting pathogenic effector cells, while leaving the rest of immune system undisturbed.


OBJECTIVE
To review the principles and challenges of antigen-specific therapies of the past and those presently under development, and how the lessons learnt can guide us moving forward.


METHODS
We review past and current antigen-specific strategies for the treatment of MS, including their successes and challenges, as well as the lessons we have learnt from them about MS pathophysiology.


RESULTS
Several antigen-specific therapies may accomplish the desired balance between safety and efficacy, although significant challenges remain for this class of therapeutics.
Giacomini
Paul S
PS
McGill University, Montreal Neurological Hospital and Institute, Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, 3801, University St, Room WB 327, Montreal, Que. H3A 2B4, Canada.
Bar-Or
Amit
A
D000941:Antigens / Q000276:immunology*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D055808:Drug Discovery; D004345:Drug Industry; D006801:Humans; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology
D000941:Antigens