EBV-linked killer T cells implicated in multiple sclerosis

Scientists find evidence of Epstein-Barr virus activity in spinal fluid of multiple sclerosis patients

Emerging research has provided fresh evidence regarding the role of viral infection in the development of multiple sclerosis. By analyzing immune cells extracted from the spinal fluid of patients, scientists identified a specific population of “killer” T cells that appear to target the Epstein-Barr virus. The findings suggest that an immune response directed at this common pathogen may drive the neurological damage associated with the disease. T…

EBV-linked killer T cells implicated in multiple sclerosis

Researchers at UC San Francisco have uncovered a new clue to how Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) could contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disease that affects nearly one million Americans.

The Common Virus Scientists Say May Trigger Multiple Sclerosis

A new study reveals how Epstein-Barr virus may provoke immune cells to attack the brain, offering fresh hope for treating multiple sclerosis. Scientists at UC San Francisco have identified a new piece of evidence that helps explain how Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a long-lasting autoimmune disease that affects [...]

New study: Immune cells linked to Epstein-Barr virus may play a role in MS

Researchers at UC San Francisco have uncovered a new clue to how Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) could contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disease that affects nearly one million Americans.  The study, published Feb. 5 in Nature Immunology, found that certain types of CD8+ “killer” T cells — immune cells that destroy damaged or infected cells — are more abundant in people with MS. Some of these killer T cells target EBV, which s…

Killer T Cells Targeting Epstein-Barr Virus May Contribute to Multiple Sclerosis

Some types of CD8+ T cells (killer T cells) may play a role in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). This is according to data from a new study published in Nature Immunology. Specifically, scientists found specific T cells that are abundant in people with MS, which also target the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). They suggest that this points to a possible role for the virus in triggering the immune response seen in the autoimmune disease.    Fu…