title: A Sardinian map for multiple sclerosis.
abstract: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune disease of the CNS. At present, MS etiology remains unknown, but it is believed to be caused by environmental factors acting on a genetic predisposition. Several studies suggest that different microorganisms could play a role in triggering autoimmunity, through immunological cross-reactivity or molecular mimicry. An overview of the knowledge regarding the bacteria involved in MS is given, placing emphasis on the newest candidate proposed: Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis. This review will focus on discussing several arguments that might support a causal role for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis as an etiologic agent in MS. Additionally, a possible mechanism is postulated attempting to explain how the bacteria could initiate autoimmunity.
authors: Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Experimental & Clinical Microbiology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
authors: Davide
authors: D
authors: Cossu
authors: Speranza
authors: S
authors: Masala
authors: Leonardo A
authors: LA
authors: Sechi
mesh_terms: D004269:DNA, Bacterial / Q000302:isolation & purification; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy / Q000453:epidemiology; D008954:Models, Biological; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000276:immunology / Q000382:microbiology*; D016927:Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis / Q000235:genetics / Q000472:pathogenicity*
chemical_list: D004269:DNA, Bacterial