Current trends in multiple sclerosis research: an update on pathogenic concepts

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) of presumed autoimmune origin which develops in a genetic susceptible individual triggered by additional environmental factors. In this review we will provide an update of basic pathogenic concepts. In addition, we will discuss newly evolving concepts in MS pathogenesis such as pathogenic heterogeneity, importance of axonal loss and the role of CD8+ T lymphocytes in tissue injury. In the last part of this review we will briefly describe currently approved MS treatments and summarize some promising therapeutic approaches that are currently under evaluation.