Regulatory T Cells in Multiple Sclerosis Diagnostics—What Do We Know So Far?

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system (CNS) through inflammation. MS symptoms become acute if the disease progresses to the relapsing phase. Aim: This review aimed to evaluate the role played by regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the pathogenesis of MS. Methods: This review used scholarly journal articles obtained from PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL with different search parameters such as ‘regulatory T cells’, ‘multiple sclerosis’, and ‘current knowledge’. The process of searching for articles was limited to those that had publication dates falling between 2010 and 2020. Results: Tregs play a role in the pathogenesis of MS. This conclusion is supported by animal disease models and environmental factors that can underlie Treg alterations in MS. Despite the knowledge of the role played by Tregs in MS pathogenesis, the specific subsets of Tregs involved in MS development remain incompletely understood. Discussion: This review provides an essential link between Tregs and MS activity. Targeting Tregs could be an efficient way to establish new treatment methods for MS management. Conclusion: MS is a complex condition affecting many people worldwide. Research has shown that Tregs can influence MS development and progression. More investigations are needed to understand how Tregs affect the pathogenesis of MS.

Keywords

• endocrine system
• endocrinology
• infections