What role do CD4+ T cells play in the development of MS?

CD4+ T cells are instrumental in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) due to their role in mediating immune responses. In MS, these cells are activated and can cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to an inflammatory response within the central nervous system. Once there, they release pro-inflammatory cytokines that promote the recruitment of other immune cells, such as B cells and macrophages, contributing to demyelination and neurodegeneration. This process is central to the disease’s mechanism, as the resulting inflammation disrupts the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers, ultimately leading to the neurological symptoms associated with MS.

Understanding this role is critical when considering the etiology of MS and the potential therapeutic targets for management, as regulating the activity of CD4+ T cells could potentially alter the course of the disease. This highlights the significant involvement of the immune system, particularly T cell responses, in driving the pathology of MS.