Recent developments in the treatment of encephalomyelitis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a form of chronic encephalomyelitis that results in demyelination of neuronal processes and subsequent neurological dysfunction. Demyelinated plaques are characterised by blood brain barrier compromise, infiltration of immune cells, and selective loss of myelin and oligodendrocyte function. Although there are genetic and environmental factors, autoimmunity is considered to be central to the pathogenesis of MS. Experimental allergic/autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an excellent model of immune-mediated demyelination and has provided insight into the disease course of MS. Because EAE has a similar pathophysiology it has also been used as a testing ground for potential therapies of MS. Recent treatment strategies include modulation of antigen levels, prevention of T cell activation or function, modulation of cytokine activity, and promotion of oligodendrocyte regeneration and/or function. This review discusses the current experimental agents that have shown promise in the amelioration of EAE and/or MS.