Advancements in MS Research: Uncovering the Link Between Viral Infections and NK Cells
Natural killer (NK) cells, a type of immune cell, play a critical role in preventing an immune response triggered by viral infections, such as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), from leading to multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers found that certain NK cells can eliminate immune cells that mistakenly target healthy myelin, the protective covering around nerve fibers. People with multiple risk factors and high levels of antibodies against EBV and myelin were estimated to be 12 to 260 times more likely to develop MS. Identifying individuals at high risk of MS before symptoms appear could lead to new prevention and treatment strategies.
