Molecular and Immunological Mechanisms Linking EBV Infection to Multiple Sclerosis: Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/JEHS.2025.85.66520Keywords
Epstein-Barr virus, multiple sclerosis, EBNA1, molecular mimicry, HLA-DRB1*15:01, autoimmunity, B cells, T cells, neuroinflammation, immunotherapyAbstract
Background: Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), a ubiquitous herpesvirus, has been increasingly implicated as a key environmental factor in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Nearly all individuals with MS are EBV-seropositive and mounting epidemiological and immunological evidence suggests a causal relationship.
Objective: This review aims to summarize current knowledge on the potential mechanisms by which EBV infection contributes to MS development, with a particular focus on immunopathology, genetic susceptibility and therapeutic implications.
Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate. Key terms included “Epstein–Barr virus,” “EBV,” “multiple sclerosis,” “EBNA1,” “molecular mimicry,” “autoimmunity,” and “HLA-DRB1*15:01.” Studies published between 2005 and 2024 were reviewed, with emphasis on high-impact research articles and recent findings.
Results: Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the association between EBV and MS, including molecular mimicry between viral and CNS antigens, chronic latent infection of B cells, and the activation of autoreactive T cells in genetically predisposed individuals. The strong association with the HLA-DRB1*15:01 allele suggests a gene–environment interaction facilitating aberrant antigen presentation and loss of tolerance. Emerging therapies targeting EBV, including EBV-specific T cell immunotherapy and vaccination strategies offer promising avenues for disease modification.
Conclusion: EBV likely plays a crucial role in MS pathogenesis, acting as a trigger of autoimmunity in susceptible individuals. Understanding the mechanisms of EBV-mediated immune dysregulation may enable the development of more targeted and preventive treatments for MS.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Michał Czechowski, Gabriela Sikora, Martyna Woźniak, Karolina Kutnik, Karolina Koguc, Karolina Kusibab, Gabriela Skórska, Marcela Słomianny, Karolina Kolada, Małgorzata Sajda
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