Ion channels in autoimmune neurodegeneration

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system characterized by widespread inflammation, focal demyelination and a variable degree of axonal and neuronal loss. Ionic conductances regulate T cell activation as well as neuronal function and thus have been found to play a crucial role in MS pathogenesis. Since present therapeutical approaches are only partially effective so far, ion channel modulation as a future strategy was brought into focus. Here, we review the status quo concerning recent findings from ion channel research in MS and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.