Antigen-specific therapies in multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Background: If found to be effective, antigen-specific therapies in MS hold the promise of selectively targeting pathogenic effector cells, while leaving the rest of immune system undisturbed. Objective: To review the principles and challenges of antigen-specific therapies of the past and those presently under development, and how the lessons learnt can guide us moving forward. Methods: We review past and current antigen-specific strategies for the treatment of MS, including their successes and challenges, as well as the lessons we have learnt from them about MS pathophysiology. Results: Several antigen-specific therapies may accomplish the desired balance between safety and efficacy, although significant challenges remain for this class of therapeutics.

Keywords::

• antigen-specific therapies
• BHT 3009
• dirucotide
• MS
• recombinant T-cell ligands
• T-cell vaccines