Mitochondria in multiple sclerosis

Front Biosci. 2008 Jan 1:13:3116-26. doi: 10.2741/2913.

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination and neurodegeneration. Although the pathogenesis of MS is not completely understood, various studies suggest that immune-mediated loss of myelin and mitochondrial dysfunction are associated with the disease. Mitochondria are one of the main cellular sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and play a pivotal role in many neuro-pathological conditions. Mitochondrial dysfunction leading to excessive production of ROS and RNS plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of MS, particularly in loss of myelin/oligodendrocyte complex. The present review summarizes critical role of mitochondria in the pathogenesis of MS. Further understanding of the role of mitochondria in MS may provide rationale for novel approaches to this disease and development of novel therapeutic maneuvers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Apoptosis
  • DNA Damage
  • Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental / metabolism
  • Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental / therapy
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria / metabolism*
  • Models, Biological
  • Multiple Sclerosis / metabolism*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / therapy*
  • Nitric Oxide
  • Peroxynitrous Acid / pharmacology
  • Reactive Nitrogen Species
  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • Sulfhydryl Compounds

Substances

  • Reactive Nitrogen Species
  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • Sulfhydryl Compounds
  • Peroxynitrous Acid
  • Nitric Oxide