title: Epstein-Barr Virus and MS.
abstract: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, particularly symptomatic infection, is closely associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). The strength of this association, the interaction of EBV infection with genetic risk factors and emerging immunological data have resulted in some investigators arguing that this association may be causative. Causation, however, is a complex science and more extensive and definitive data is required to convince the wider community that EBV is the pivotal factor in the complex causal pathway that ultimately leads to the development of MS.
authors.affiliation: Gavin Giovannoni Neuroscience and Trauma Centre, Blizard Institute of Cell and Molecular Science, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, 4 Newark Street, London E1 2AT, UK, Tel: +44 20 7377 7472, Fax: +44 20 7377 7300, E-mail: g.giovannoni@qmul.ac.uk.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Giovannoni
mesh_terms: D000914:Antibodies, Viral; D020031:Epstein-Barr Virus Infections; D004854:Herpesvirus 4, Human / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis; D012108:Research Personnel; D012111:Residence Characteristics
chemical_list: D000914:Antibodies, Viral