EBV and MS: The evidence is growing stronger. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38134873/)

These scientists wanted to understand why some people develop a disease called multiple sclerosis (MS) after being infected with a virus called Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). They knew that the body's immune system produces special proteins called antibodies to fight against viruses. But sometimes, these antibodies can mistakenly attack healthy cells in our body, causing diseases like MS.

In their study, the scientists looked at how the immune system works in both healthy people and those with MS. They found that healthy people have some special mechanisms in their immune system that help protect them from developing MS after being infected with EBV. These mechanisms are like little soldiers that keep the immune system in check and stop it from attacking our own body.

However, the scientists discovered that in people with MS, these protective mechanisms are not as strong. This means that their immune system is more likely to attack their own body cells, leading to the development of MS.

So, the scientists found evidence that confirms the link between the Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis. They hope that by understanding these immune system mechanisms better, they can find ways to prevent or treat MS in the future.

Farrell PJ. EBV and MS: The evidence is growing stronger. Cell. 2023 Dec 21;186(26):5675-5676. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.11.023.