Infection of autoreactive B lymphocytes with EBV, causing chronic autoimmune diseases

The association between infectious agents and breast cancer: a review of the epidemiologic evidence

PURPOSE

Several viruses have been casually linked to human cancers, including cervical, nasopharyngeal, liver, sarcoma, and Merkel cell carcinomas. However, the etiologic contribution of viral infections to breast cancer, the number one incident cancer among women worldwide, is not well established. Among studies exploring associations of viruses with breast cancer, potential linkages have been identified between breast cancer and five viruses: beta retrovirus, (i.e., mouse mammary tumor virus), human papillomavirus, Epstein Barr virus. bovine leukemia virus, and human cytomegalovirus.

METHODS

In this review, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of epidemiological ecologic, case-control, case-only, and cohort studies investigating these associations. We discuss results from several existing reviews and meta-analyses, evaluate epidemiological studies published in the past five years, and assess the relationship between these viruses and breast tumor clinicopathological factors.

RESULTS

The strongest epidemiological evidence for a viral role in breast cancer exists for MMTV and HPV, though limitations include lack of prospective studies for MMTV and potential detection bias in HPV studies. Viral detection challenges have limited studies of EBV and HCMV. Fewer studies have evaluated BLV, and though it has been associated with higher risk of breast cancer, sample sizes are quite small.   CONCLUSION: While epidemiologic evidence exists for an association between these five viruses and breast cancer, various methodological issues and lack of prospective studies preclude robust conclusions. Future research should prioritize establishing a temporal relationship between infection and disease, minimizing misclassification of detection assays, and further exploring the influence of co-infections.

EBV infected cells in the multiple sclerosis brain express PD-L1: How the virus and its niche may escape immune surveillance

The presence of EBV infected B cells in postmortem multiple sclerosis (MS) brain tissue suggests immune evasion strategies. Using immunohistochemical techniques we analysed the expression of the immune checkpoint molecule PD-L1 and its receptor PD-1 in MS brains containing B cell-enriched perivascular infiltrates and meningeal follicles, a major EBV reservoir. PD-1 and PD-L1 immunoreactivities were restricted to CNS-infiltrating immune cells. PD-L1 was expressed on B cells, including EBV infected B cells, while PD-1 was expressed on many CD8+ T cells, including EBV-specific CD8+ T-cells, and fewer CD4+ T cells. PD-L1+ cells and EBV infected cells were in close contact with PD-1+ T cells. PD-L1 expressed by EBV infected B cells could favour local immune evasion leading to EBV persistence and immunopathology in the MS brain.

From Animal Models to Clinical Trials: The Potential of Antimicrobials in Multiple Sclerosis Treatment

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, autoimmune, demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Microbes, including bacteria and certain viruses, particularly Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), have been linked to the pathogenesis of MS. While there is currently no cure for MS, antibiotics and antivirals have been studied as potential treatment options due to their immunomodulatory ability that results in the regulation of the immune process. The current issue addressed in this systematic review is the effect of antimicrobials, including antibiotics, antivirals, and antiparasitic agents in animals and humans. We performed a comprehensive search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for articles on antimicrobials in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis animal models of MS, as well as in people with MS (pwMS). In animal models, antibiotics tested included beta-lactams, minocycline, rapamycin, macrolides, and doxycycline. Antivirals included acyclovir, valacyclovir, and ganciclovir. Hydroxychloroquine was the only antiparasitic that was tested. In pwMS, we identified a total of 24 studies, 17 of them relevant to antibiotics, 6 to antivirals, and 1 relevant to antiparasitic hydroxychloroquine. While the effect of antimicrobials in animal models was promising, only minocycline and hydroxychloroquine improved outcome measures in pwMS. No favorable effect of the antivirals in humans has been observed yet. The number and size of clinical trials testing antimicrobials have been limited. Large, multicenter, well-designed studies are needed to further evaluate the effect of antimicrobials in MS.

The Role of Viral Infections in the Onset of Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are the consequence of a breach in immune tolerance, leading to the inability to sufficiently differentiate between self and non-self. Immune reactions that are targeted towards self-antigens can ultimately lead to the destruction of the host's cells and the development of autoimmune diseases. Although autoimmune disorders are comparatively rare, the worldwide incidence and prevalence is increasing, and they have major adverse implications for mortality and morbidity. Genetic and environmental factors are thought to be the major factors contributing to the development of autoimmunity. Viral infections are one of the environmental triggers that can lead to autoimmunity. Current research suggests that several mechanisms, such as molecular mimicry, epitope spreading, and bystander activation, can cause viral-induced autoimmunity. Here we describe the latest insights into the pathomechanisms of viral-induced autoimmune diseases and discuss recent findings on COVID-19 infections and the development of AIDs.

Tissue-resident memory T cells in the multiple sclerosis brain and their relationship to Epstein-Barr virus infected B cells

Presence of EBV infected B cells and EBV-specific CD8 T cells in the multiple sclerosis (MS) brain suggests a role for virus-driven immunopathology in brain inflammation. Tissue-resident memory (Trm) T cells differentiating in MS lesions could provide local protection against EBV reactivation. Using immunohistochemical techniques to analyse canonical tissue residency markers in postmortem brains from control and MS cases, we report that CD103 and/or CD69 are mainly expressed in a subset of CD8+ T cells that intermingle with and contact EBV infected B cells in the infiltrated MS white matter and meninges, including B-cell follicles. Some Trm-like cells were found to express granzyme B and PD-1, mainly in white matter lesions. In the MS brain, Trm cells could fail to constrain EBV infection while contributing to sustain inflammation.

Infectious mononucleosis is associated with an increased incidence of Crohn's disease: results from a cohort study of 31 862 outpatients in Germany

OBJECTIVE

The pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has not been fully uncovered to date. Epstein-Barr-Virus (EBV) infection has recently been associated with the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis, suggesting a general link between EBV and autoimmune diseases. However, data on an association between EBV and IBD have remained inconclusive. This study aims at evaluating an association between EBV and the development of IBD.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 15 931 patients with and 15 931 matched patients without infectious mononucleosis from the Disease Analyzer database (IQVIA) between 2000 and 2018. Incidences of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis were evaluated using Cox regression models.

RESULTS

Within 5 years of the index date, the cumulative incidence of IBD was 124 and 90 cases per 100 000 person-years among patients with and without infectious mononucleosis, respectively (P = 0.040). In regression analyses, infectious mononucleosis was significantly associated with IBD [hazard ratios (HR), 1.35; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01-1.81]. Subgroup analyses revealed an association between infectious mononucleosis and Crohn's disease (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.22-3.05) but not ulcerative colitis (HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.70-1.51). This association was strongest in patients between 14 and 20 years (HR, 4.50; 95% CI, 1.55-13.13) and was only observed in females (HR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.39-4.53).

CONCLUSION

Infectious mononucleosis is significantly associated with an increased incidence of Crohn's disease but not ulcerative colitis, especially in young female patients. Our data support the hypothesis of a pathophysiological involvement of EBV in the development of Crohn's disease and should trigger molecular research to further dissect the pathophysiology of IBD.

From bedside to bench: how existing therapies inform the relationship between Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis

Therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) has advanced dramatically despite incomplete understanding of the cause of the condition. Current treatment involves inducing broad effects on immune cell populations with consequent off-target side effects, and no treatment can completely prevent disability progression. Further therapeutic advancement will require a better understanding of the pathobiology of MS. Interest in the role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in multiple sclerosis has intensified based on strong epidemiological evidence of an association between EBV seroprevalence and MS. Hypotheses proposed to explain the biological relationship between EBV and MS include molecular mimicry, EBV immortalised autoreactive B cells and infection of glial cells by EBV. Examining the interaction between EBV and immunotherapies that have demonstrated efficacy in MS offers clues to the validity of these hypotheses. The efficacy of B cell depleting therapies could be consistent with a hypothesis that EBV-infected B cells drive MS; however, loss of T cell control of B cells does not exacerbate MS. A number of MS therapies invoke change in EBV-specific T cell populations, but pathogenic EBV-specific T cells with cross-reactivity to CNS antigen have not been identified. Immune reconstitution therapies induce EBV viraemia and expansion of EBV-specific T cell clones, but this does not correlate with relapse. Much remains unknown regarding the role of EBV in MS pathogenesis. We discuss future translational research that could fill important knowledge gaps.

IgA Nephropathy: Pleiotropic impact of Epstein-Barr virus infection on immunopathogenesis and racial incidence of the disease

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is an autoimmune disease in which poorly galactosylated IgA1 is the antigen recognized by naturally occurring anti-glycan antibodies, leading to formation of nephritogenic circulating immune complexes. Incidence of IgAN displays geographical and racial disparity: common in Europe, North America, Australia, and east Asia, uncommon in African Americans, many Asian and South American countries, Australian Aborigines, and rare in central Africa. In analyses of sera and cells from White IgAN patients, healthy controls, and African Americans, IgAN patients exhibited substantial enrichment for IgA-expressing B cells infected with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), leading to enhanced production of poorly galactosylated IgA1. Disparities in incidence of IgAN may reflect a previously disregarded difference in the maturation of the IgA system as related to the timing of EBV infection. Compared with populations with higher incidences of IgAN, African Americans, African Blacks, and Australian Aborigines are more frequently infected with EBV during the first 1-2 years of life at the time of naturally occurring IgA deficiency when IgA cells are less numerous than in late childhood or adolescence. Therefore, in very young children EBV enters "non-IgA" cells. Ensuing immune responses prevent infection of IgA B cells during later exposure to EBV at older ages. Our data implicate EBV-infected cells as the source of poorly galactosylated IgA1 in circulating immune complexes and glomerular deposits in patients with IgAN. Thus, temporal differences in EBV primo-infection as related to naturally delayed maturation of the IgA system may contribute to geographic and racial variations in incidence of IgAN.

Autoimmune complications of COVID-19 and potential consequences for long-lasting disease syndromes

The latest WHO report determined the increasing diversity within the CoV-2 omicron and its descendent lineages. Some heavily mutated offshoots of BA.5 and BA.2, such as BA.4.6, BF.7, BQ.1.1, and BA.2.75, are responsible for about 20% of infections and are spreading rapidly in multiple countries. It is a sign that Omicron subvariants are now developing a capacity to be more immune escaping and may contribute to a new wave of COVID-19. Covid-19 infections often induce many alterations in human physiological defense and the natural control systems, with exacerbated activation of the inflammatory and homeostatic response, as for any infectious diseases. Severe activation of the early phase of hemostatic components, often occurs, leading to thrombotic complications and often contributing to a lethal outcome selectively in certain populations. Development of autoimmune complications increases the disease burden and lowers its prognosis. While the true mechanism still remains unclear, it is believed to mainly be related to the host autoimmune responses as demonstrated, only in some patients suffering from the presence of autoantibodies that worsens the disease evolution. In fact in some studies the development of autoantibodies to angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) was identified, and in other studies autoantibodies, thought to be targeting interferon or binding to annexin A1, or autoantibodies to phospholipids were seen. Moreover, the occurrence of autoimmune heparin induced thrombocytopenia has also been described in infected patients treated with heparin for controlling thrombogenicity. This commentary focuses on the presence of various autoantibodies reported so far in Covid-19 diseases, exploring their association with the disease course and the durability of some related symptoms. Attempts are also made to further analyze the potential mechanism of actions and link the presence of antibodies with pathological complications.

Effect of Epstein-Barr Virus Infection on Selected Immunological Parameters in Children with Type 1 Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders with different etiologies, pathogeneses and clinical pictures, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to abnormal insulin secretion or action. Type 1 diabetes mellitus is the most common type of diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents, accounting for about 90% of diabetes in the population under the age of 18. The etiopathogenesis of type 1 diabetes is multifactorial. The disease occurs as a result of the interaction of three factors: genetic predisposition, environmental factors and the immune response. Research in recent years has focused on the involvement of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the pathogenesis of type I diabetes. The goals of treating type 1 diabetes include maintaining blood-glucose, fructosamine and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels; therefore, the main purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of EBV infection on the activation of selected immune cells, fructosamine levels and HbA1c levels in children with type I diabetes. Based on our study, we found a lower percentage of CD8+ T lymphocytes with expression of the CD69 molecule in patients with anti-VCA antibodies in the IgG class, and a lower percentage of CD8+ T lymphocytes with expression of the CD25+ molecule in patients with anti-EBNA-1 antibodies in the IgG class, which may indicate limited control of the immune system during EBV infection in patients. There was a lower percentage of CD3+CD4+ T lymphocytes secreting IL-4 in the study group, indicating that a deficiency in IL-4 production may be related to the development of type 1 diabetes. There was an increase in the percentage of CD4+CD3+IL-10 lymphocytes in the study group with anti-VCA antibodies present in the IgG class and anti-EBNA-1 antibodies in the IgG class compared to the patients without antibodies. In addition, there was a significant increase in fructosamine levels and higher glycated hemoglobin levels in the study group with antibodies to EBV antigens. In addition, an increase in the percentage of T lymphocytes with a CD4+CD3+IL-17+ phenotype in the patients with anti-VCA IgG antibodies was confirmed, and higher HbA1c levels may suggest that EBV infection is accompanied by an increase in IL-17 secretion.

The role of the complement system in Multiple Sclerosis: A review

The complement system has been involved in the pathogenesis of multiple neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions. In this review, we evaluated the possible role of complement activation in multiple sclerosis (MS) with a focus in progressive MS, where the disease pathogenesis remains to be fully elucidated and treatment options are limited. The evidence for the involvement of the complement system in the white matter plaques and gray matter lesions of MS stems from immunohistochemical analysis of post-mortem MS brains, in vivo serum and cerebrospinal fluid biomarker studies, and animal models of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE). Complement knock-out studies in these animal models have revealed that this system may have a “double-edge sword” effect in MS. On the one hand, complement proteins may aid in promoting the clearance of myelin degradation products and other debris through myeloid cell-mediated phagocytosis. On the other, its aberrant activation may lead to demyelination at the rim of progressive MS white matter lesions as well as synapse loss in the gray matter. The complement system may also interact with known risk factors of MS, including as Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection, and perpetuate the activation of CNS self-reactive B cell populations. With the mounting evidence for the involvement of complement in MS, the development of complement modulating therapies for this condition is appealing. Herein, we also reviewed the pharmacological complement inhibitors that have been tested in MS animal models as well as in clinical trials for other neurologic diseases. The potential use of these agents, such as the C5-binding antibody eculizumab in MS will require a detailed understanding of the role of the different complement effectors in this disease and the development of better CNS delivery strategies for these compounds.

Infectious mononucleosis is associated with an increased incidence of multiple sclerosis: Results from a cohort study of 32,116 outpatients in Germany

Background

The pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) has not yet been fully uncovered. There is increasing evidence that Epstein-Barr-Virus (EBV) infection, which affects over 90% of people during life and causes infectious mononucleosis, leads to an increased incidence of MS, and thus may play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of the disease.

Methods

Using the Disease Analyzer database (IQVIA) featuring diagnoses as well as basic medical and demographic data of outpatients from general practices in Germany, we identified a total of 16,058 patients with infectious mononucleosis that were matched to a cohort of equal size without infectious mononucleosis based on patients’ age, sex, index year and yearly consultation frequency. Incidence of MS was compared within a 10-year follow-up period.

Results

Within 10 years from the index date, the incidence of MS was 22.6 cases per 100,000 person-years among patient with infectious mononucleosis but only 11.9 cases per 100,000 person-years among individuals without infectious mononucleosis. In regression analysis, infectious mononucleosis was significantly associated with the incidence of MS (HR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.09-3.16). Subgroup analysis revealed the strongest association between infectious mononucleosis and MS in the age group between 14 and 20 years (HR: 3.52, 95% CI: 1.00-12.37) as well as a stronger association in men compared to women.

Conclusion

Infectious mononucleosis is associated with an increased incidence of MS especially in younger individuals. Our data support the growing evidence of a decisive involvement of EBV in the currently unknown pathophysiology of MS and should trigger further research efforts to better understand and potentially prevent cases of this disabling disease in future.

CD4+ Cytotoxic T Cells Involved in the Development of EBV-Associated Diseases

Activated cytotoxic CD4 T cells (HLA-DR+) play an important role in the control of EBV infection, especially in cells with latency I (EBNA-1). One of the evasion mechanisms of these latency cells is generated by gp42, which, via peripherally binding to the β1 domain of the β chain of MHC class II (HLA-DQ, -DR, and -DP) of the infected B lymphocyte, can block/alter the HLA class II/T-cell receptor (TCR) interaction, and confer an increased level of susceptibility towards the development of EBV-associated autoimmune diseases or cancer in genetically predisposed individuals (HLA-DRB1* and DQB1* alleles). The main developments predisposing the factors of these diseases are: EBV infection; HLA class II risk alleles; sex; and tissue that is infiltrated with EBV-latent cells, forming ectopic lymphoid structures. Therefore, there is a need to identify treatments for eliminating cells with EBV latency, because the current treatments (e.g., antivirals and rituximab) are ineffective.

The Role of Exposomes in the Pathophysiology of Autoimmune Diseases II: Pathogens

In our continuing examination of the role of exposomes in autoimmune disease, we use this review to focus on pathogens. Infections are major contributors to the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases through various mechanisms, foremost being molecular mimicry, when the structural similarity between the pathogen and a human tissue antigen leads to autoimmune reactivity and even autoimmune disease. The three best examples of this are oral pathogens, SARS-CoV-2, and the herpesviruses. Oral pathogens reach the gut, disturb the microbiota, increase gut permeability, cause local inflammation, and generate autoantigens, leading to systemic inflammation, multiple autoimmune reactivities, and systemic autoimmunity. The COVID-19 pandemic put the spotlight on SARS-CoV-2, which has been called “the autoimmune virus.” We explore in detail the evidence supporting this. We also describe how viruses, in particular herpesviruses, have a role in the induction of many different autoimmune diseases, detailing the various mechanisms involved. Lastly, we discuss the microbiome and the beneficial microbiota that populate it. We look at the role of the gut microbiome in autoimmune disorders, because of its role in regulating the immune system. Dysbiosis of the microbiota in the gut microbiome can lead to multiple autoimmune disorders. We conclude that understanding the precise roles and relationships shared by all these factors that comprise the exposome and identifying early events and root causes of these disorders can help us to develop more targeted therapeutic protocols for the management of this worldwide epidemic of autoimmunity.

Association of Human Leucocyte Antigen Class II, with viral load and immune response to Epstein-Barr virus in adult and pediatric Systemic lupus erythematosus patients

OBJECTIVE

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disease, which is known to be associated with HLA-DRB1 and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. In the Indian subcontinent where there is high seroendemicity of EBV, we postulated that the association of this virus in adult SLE (aSLE) and pediatric SLE (pSLE) patients would be different and differentially associate with the HLA-DRB1 susceptibility and protective genes.

METHODS

A total of 109 aSLE, 52 pSLE, 215 adult healthy and 63 pediatric healthy controls were recruited. HLA-DRB1 genotyping by PCR-SSP, EBV load estimation by real-time PCR and antibody profiling (IgG & IgM) to EBV antigens by line blot assay were performed.

RESULTS

DRB1*15 was found predominant in pSLE patients and DRB1*03 in aSLE patients. DRB1*15/X heterozygous was predominant in overall SLE patients, although disease severity, like hypocomplementemia, higher autoantibody levels and more organ involvement was observed in *15/*15 homozygous state. EBV strongly associated with pSLE patients showing higher percent of EA-D IgG (p < 0.0001) and p22 IgG (p = 0.035) along with higher viral load (p = 0.001) as compared to healthy controls. In addition, the higher EBV DNA load significantly associated with anti-EA-D IgG (p = 0.013) and DRB1*15/*15 (p = 0.007) in pSLE patients as compared to aSLE patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study therefore indicates that different HLA-DRB1 allotypes confer susceptibility to SLE in children and adults and disease may be triggered by increased EBV reactivation.

B cell-directed therapies: a new era in Multiple Sclerosis treatment

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that often progresses to severe disability. Previous studies have highlighted the role of T cells in disease pathophysiology; however, the success of B-cell-targeted therapies has led to an increased interest in how B cells contribute to disease immunopathology. In this review, we summarize evidence of B-cell involvement in MS disease mechanisms, starting with pathology and moving on to review aspects of B cell immunobiology potentially relevant to MS. We describe current theories of critical B cell contributions to the inflammatory CNS milieu in MS, namely (i) production of autoantibodies, (ii) antigen presentation, (iii) production of proinflammatory cytokines (bystander activation), and (iv) EBV involvement. In the second part of the review, we summarize medications that have targeted B cells in patients with MS and their current position in the therapeutic armamentarium based on clinical trials and real-world data. Covered therapeutic strategies include the targeting of surface molecules such as CD20 (rituximab, ocrelizumab, ofatumumab, ublituximab) and CD19 (inebilizumab), and molecules necessary for B-cell activation such as B cell activating factor (BAFF) (belimumab) and Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) (evobrutinib). We finally discuss the use of B-cell-targeted therapeutics in pregnancy.

DOCK8-expressing T follicular helper cells newly generated beyond self-organized criticality cause systemic lupus erythematosus

Pathogens including autoantigens all failed to induce systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We, instead, studied the integrity of host's immune response that recognized pathogen. By stimulating TCR with an antigen repeatedly to levels that surpass host's steady-state response, self-organized criticality, SLE was induced in mice normally not prone to autoimmunity, wherein T follicular helper (Tfh) cells expressing the guanine nucleotide exchange factor DOCK8 on the cell surface were newly generated. DOCK8⁺Tfh cells passed through TCR re-revision and induced varieties of autoantibody and lupus lesions. They existed in splenic red pulp and peripheral blood of active lupus patients, which subsequently declined after therapy. Autoantibodies and disease were healed by anti-DOCK8 antibody in the mice including SLE-model (NZBxNZW) F1 mice. Thus, DOCK8⁺Tfh cells generated after repeated TCR stimulation by immunogenic form of pathogen, either exogenous or endogenous, in combination with HLA to levels that surpass system's self-organized criticality, cause SLE.

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Autoimmunity seldom takes place under integrated steady-state immune response

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Repeated invasion by pathogen, such as measles virus, is not exceptional but routine in life

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DOCK8+Tfh is generated upon TCR overstimulation by pathogen beyond self-organized criticality

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Newly generated DOCK8+Tfh induces autoantibodies and SLE, i.e., autoimmunity

Epstein-Barr virus reactivation induced myeloperoxidase-specific antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPO-ANCA)-associated vasculitis

We present a patient with systemic symptoms including 4 months of dyspnoea worsened with exertion, fatigue, rhinorrhoea, intermittent facial swelling, generalised lymphadenopathy and weight loss. Laboratory studies demonstrated proteinuria and eosinophilia. His serology was consistent with Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) reactivation. A lymph node biopsy was consistent with EBV-associated reactive lymphoid hyperplasia. He was told to continue symptomatic treatment for EBV infection. After several admissions, vasculitis workup and myeloperoxidase-antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA) studies were positive. Evolution of clinical symptoms, laboratory parameters and our literature review suggested the diagnosis of EBV-associated ANCA vasculitis. Steroids were started after the patient continued to deteriorate; the viral load started increasing, so we added valganciclovir with favourable clinical response and no relapse during the follow-up for 6 months. This suggests that with evidence of viraemia (primary or reactivation), antiviral treatment likely has clinical benefit while immunosuppression is being considered.

Sjögren's Syndrome and Viral Infections

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disease, characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the secretory glands. This leads to dryness of the main mucosal surfaces such as the mouth, eyes, nose, larynx, pharynx, and vagina. Although there is little morbidity data at the initial diagnosis, SS may be a serious disease, with extra mortality caused by hematological cancer. The cause of SS is unknown, but factors postulated to play a role include genetic and environmental factors, hormonal abnormality, and viral infection. Under the influence of these factors, the immune system becomes abnormal and the tissue is damaged. In this study, we summarize recent developments in our understanding of the relationship between SS and viral infections, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

The CD8 T Cell-Epstein-Barr Virus-B Cell Trialogue: A Central Issue in Multiple Sclerosis Pathogenesis

The cause and the pathogenic mechanisms leading to multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS), are still under scrutiny. During the last decade, awareness has increased that multiple genetic and environmental factors act in concert to modulate MS risk. Likewise, the landscape of cells of the adaptive immune system that are believed to play a role in MS immunopathogenesis has expanded by including not only CD4 T helper cells but also cytotoxic CD8 T cells and B cells. Once the key cellular players are identified, the main challenge is to define precisely how they act and interact to induce neuroinflammation and the neurodegenerative cascade in MS. CD8 T cells have been implicated in MS pathogenesis since the 80's when it was shown that CD8 T cells predominate in MS brain lesions. Interest in the role of CD8 T cells in MS was revived in 2000 and the years thereafter by studies showing that CNS-recruited CD8 T cells are clonally expanded and have a memory effector phenotype indicating in situ antigen-driven reactivation. The association of certain MHC class I alleles with MS genetic risk implicates CD8 T cells in disease pathogenesis. Moreover, experimental studies have highlighted the detrimental effects of CD8 T cell activation on neural cells. While the antigens responsible for T cell recruitment and activation in the CNS remain elusive, the high efficacy of B-cell depleting drugs in MS and a growing number of studies implicate B cells and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a B-lymphotropic herpesvirus that is strongly associated with MS, in the activation of pathogenic T cells. This article reviews the results of human studies that have contributed to elucidate the role of CD8 T cells in MS immunopathogenesis, and discusses them in light of current understanding of autoreactivity, B-cell and EBV involvement in MS, and mechanism of action of different MS treatments. Based on the available evidences, an immunopathological model of MS is proposed that entails a persistent EBV infection of CNS-infiltrating B cells as the target of a dysregulated cytotoxic CD8 T cell response causing CNS tissue damage.

Epigenetic Plasticity Enables CNS-Trafficking of EBV-infected B Lymphocytes

Subpopulations of B-lymphocytes traffic to different sites and organs to provide diverse and tissue-specific functions. Here, we provide evidence that epigenetic differences confer a neuroinvasive phenotype. An EBV+ B cell lymphoma cell line (M14) with low frequency trafficking to the CNS was neuroadapted to generate a highly neuroinvasive B-cell population (MUN14). MUN14 B cells efficiently infiltrated the CNS within one week and produced neurological pathologies. We compared the gene expression profiles of viral and cellular genes using RNA-Seq and identified one viral (EBNA1) and several cellular gene candidates, including secreted phosphoprotein 1/osteopontin (SPP1/OPN), neuron navigator 3 (NAV3), CXCR4, and germinal center-associated signaling and motility protein (GCSAM) that were selectively upregulated in MUN14. ATAC-Seq and ChIP-qPCR revealed that these gene expression changes correlated with epigenetic changes at gene regulatory elements. The neuroinvasive phenotype could be attenuated with a neutralizing antibody to OPN, confirming the functional role of this protein in trafficking EBV+ B cells to the CNS. These studies indicate that B-cell trafficking to the CNS can be acquired by epigenetic adaptations and provide a new model to study B-cell neuroinvasion associated CNS lymphoma and autoimmune disease of the CNS, including multiple sclerosis (MS).

Epstein-Barr virus: Current questions and challenges

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infects most people worldwide and persists for life due to complicated interplay between lytic infection and multiple types of latent infections. While usually asymptomatic, EBV is a causative agent in several types of cancer and has a strong association with multiple sclerosis. Exactly how EBV promotes these diseases and why they are rare consequences of infection are incompletely understood. Here I will discuss current ideas on disease induction by EBV, including the importance of lytic protein expression in the context of latent infection as well as the possible importance of specific EBV variants in disease induction.

Inflammation in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that is characterised pathologically by demyelination, gliosis, neuro-axonal damage and inflammation. Despite intense research, the underlying pathomechanisms driving inflammatory demyelination in MS still remain incompletely understood. It is thought to be caused by an autoimmune response towards CNS self-antigens in genetically susceptible individuals, assuming autoreactive T cells as disease-initiating immune cells. Yet, B cells were recognized as crucial immune cells in disease pathology, including antibody-dependent and independent effects. Moreover, myeloid cells are important contributors to MS pathology, and it is becoming increasingly evident that different cell types act in concert during MS immunopathology. This is supported by the finding that the beneficial effects of actual existing disease-modifying therapies cannot be attributed to one single immune cell-type, but rather involve immunological cooperation. The current strategy of MS therapies thus aims to shift the immune cell repertoire from a pro-inflammatory towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype, involving regulatory T and B cells and anti-inflammatory macrophages. Although no existing therapy actually exists that directly induces an enhanced regulatory immune cell pool, numerous studies identified potential net effects on these cell types. This review gives a conceptual overview on T cells, B cells and myeloid cells in the immunopathology of relapsing-remitting MS and discusses potential contributions of actual disease-modifying therapies on these immune cell phenotypes.

Sustained Clinical Improvement in a Subset of Patients With Progressive Multiple Sclerosis Treated With Epstein-Barr Virus-Specific T Cell Therapy

Background: Increasing evidence indicates a role for Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). EBV-infected autoreactive B cells might accumulate in the central nervous system because of defective cytotoxic CD8⁺ T cell immunity. We have previously reported results of a phase I clinical trial of autologous EBV-specific T cell therapy in MS 6 months after treatment.

Objective: To investigate longer-term outcomes in MS patients who received autologous EBV-specific T cell therapy.

Methods: We assessed participants 2 and 3 years after completion of T cell therapy.

Results: We collected data from all 10 treated participants at year 2 and from 9 participants at year 3. No serious treatment-related adverse events were observed. Four participants had at least some sustained clinical improvement at year 2, including reduced fatigue in three participants, and reduced Expanded Disability Status Scale score in two participants. Three participants experienced a sustained improvement in at least some symptoms at year 3. More sustained improvement was associated with higher EBV-specific CD8⁺ T cell reactivity in the administered T cell product.

Conclusion: Autologous EBV-specific T cell therapy is well-tolerated, and some degree of clinical improvement can be sustained for up to 3 years after treatment.

First report of HHV-8 viral load and seroprevalence of major blood-borne viruses in Iranian patients with systemic sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by autoimmune manifestations, and viral infections may have a key role in the development and progression of it. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of major blood-borne viruses and HHV-8 viral load in Iranian SSc patients.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 90 patients with a confirmed history of SSc and 90 healthy blood donors were enrolled. The frequency of HHV-8, CMV, EBV, HIV, HBV, and HCV antibodies and HHV-8 viral load were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time PCR assay, respectively.

RESULTS

HHV-8 IgG antibody was diagnosed in 61 (67.8%) patients and 3 (3.3%) healthy individuals (p<0.0001), but its genomic DNA was not detected in the patients or healthy blood donors. CMV and EBV antibodies were detected in 100% and 88.9% of SSc patients without any significant difference with healthy population (p>0.05). None of the patients or healthy population was positive for HBsAg and HIVAb; however, HCVAb was detected in two patients.

CONCLUSION

According to the results, HHV-8 antibody was uniquely increased in SSc population while its frequency in healthy population was very low. Since none of the SSc patients were positive for HHV-8 genomic DNA, the high prevalence of HHV-8 antibody in this group was not related to the real history of infection. Therefore, antibody-mediated epitope mimicry can play a role to get the high rate of seropositivity and lead to pathogeneses of SSc. Besides, CMV and EBV viral load monitoring in SSc patients can help the physician to prescribe the viral drugs to suppress the viral replication and avoid the crucial effect of reactivation.

Traditional Chinese medicine is a useful and promising alternative strategy for treatment of Sjogren's syndrome: A review

Primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease involving exocrine glands. Current studies have found that the occurrence of the disease is closely related to genetic, environmental and neuroendocrine factors, as well as abnormal activation of T and B lymphocytes. The etiology and pathogenesis of pSS is complex, and there is a lack of specific targeted drugs. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been comprehensively investigated for their treatment effects on pSS. Through a systematic review of the literature, we summarized the TCMs used to treat pSS, and find that there are four major ways that TCMs are used, including upregulation of aquaporin proteins, suppression of cell apoptosis, suppression of the abnormal activation of B lymphocytes and suppression of the abnormal activation of T lymphocytes (balancing T helper type [Th]1/Th2 & Th17/Treg and suppressing follicular helper T [Tfh] cells). However, there are not enough data about the active constituents, quality control, pharmacokinetics, toxicity and modern preparations of these TCMs; therefore, more investigations are needed. This paper highlights the importance of TCMs for treating pSS and provides guidance for future investigations.

The role of Epstein-Barr virus in the etiology of multiple sclerosis: a current review

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. While its exact etiology is unknown, it is generally believed that MS is caused by environmental triggers in genetically predisposed individuals. Strong and consistent evidence suggests a key role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a B lymphotropic human gammaherpesvirus, in the etiology of MS. Areas covered: This review summarizes recent developments in the field of EBV and MS with a focus on potential mechanisms underlying the role of EBV in MS. PubMed was searched for the terms 'Epstein-Barr virus' and 'multiple sclerosis'. Expert opinion: The current evidence is compatible with the working hypothesis that MS is a rare complication of EBV infection. Under the premise of a causative role of EBV in MS, it needs to be postulated that EBV causes a specific, and likely persistent, change(s) that is necessarily required for the development of MS. However, although progress has been made, the nature of that change and thus the precise mechanism explaining the role of EBV in MS remain elusive. The mechanism of EBV in MS therefore is a pressing question, whose clarification may substantially advance the pathophysiological understanding, rational therapies, and prevention of MS.

Epstein-Barr Virus and Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurologic disease affecting myelinated nerves in the central nervous system (CNS). The disease often debuts as a clinically isolated syndrome, e.g., optic neuritis (ON), which later develops into relapsing-remitting (RR) MS, with temporal attacks or primary progressive (PP) MS. Characteristic features of MS are inflammatory foci in the CNS and intrathecal synthesis of immunoglobulins (Igs), measured as an IgG index, oligoclonal bands (OCBs), or specific antibody indexes. Major predisposing factors for MS are certain tissue types (e.g., HLA DRB1*15:01), vitamin D deficiency, smoking, obesity, and infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Many of the clinical signs of MS described above can be explained by chronic/recurrent EBV infection and current models of EBV involvement suggest that RRMS may be caused by repeated entry of EBV-transformed B cells to the CNS in connection with attacks, while PPMS may be caused by more chronic activity of EBV-transformed B cells in the CNS. In line with the model of EBV's role in MS, new treatments based on monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) targeting B cells have shown good efficacy in clinical trials both for RRMS and PPMS, while MAbs inhibiting B cell mobilization and entry to the CNS have shown efficacy in RRMS. Thus, these agents, which are now first line therapy in many patients, may be hypothesized to function by counteracting a chronic EBV infection.

Serological Evidence for the Association Between Epstein-Barr Virus Infection and Sjögren's Syndrome

Background

Exposure to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection has been hypothesized to be an important risk factor for multiple rheumatic diseases, but the serological evidence so far for its role in Sjögren’s syndrome (SjS) is not clearly established yet. This study aimed to assess the seroepidemiological associations of antibodies to EBV with SjS.

Methods

A seroepidemiological study containing 119 patients with SjS and 65 healthy controls was first performed, in which the associations of SjS with four commonly studied EBV antibodies including IgM-anti-viral capsid antigen (anti-VCA) antibody, IgG-anti-VCA antibody, IgG-anti-early antigen (anti-EA) antibody, and IgG-anti-EBV nuclear antigen 1 (anti-EBNA1) antibody were evaluated. A systematic review and meta-analysis of eligible seroepidemiological studies was also carried out, and data syntheses were performed using random-effect meta-analysis.

Results

In the case-control study, the patients with SjS had both a significantly higher prevalence of IgG-anti-EA antibody positivity (31.9% vs. 3.1%, P < 0.001) and high titers of IgG-anti-EA antibody (P < 0.001) than healthy controls. The titer of IgG-anti-VCA antibody was significantly increased in the patients with SjS compared with healthy controls (P < 0.001). IgG-anti-EA antibody seropositive patients with SjS had lower levels of both C3 (P = 0.002) and C4 (P = 0.02), and the titer of IgG-anti-EA antibody was inversely related to the levels of both C3 (r = -0.31, P < 0.001) and C4 (r = -0.20, P = 0.03). A total of 14 eligible studies on the serological associations between EBV infection and SjS were finally included into the meta-analysis, which suggested obvious associations of SjS with IgM-anti-VCA antibody [Odds ratio (OR) = 5.77, 95%CI 1.73–19.25, P = 0.004] and IgG-anti-EA antibody (OR = 9.97, 95%CI 4.58-21.67, P < 0.00001).

Conclusions

The findings from this study provide strong serological evidence for the association between EBV infection and SjS. SjS has obvious associations with IgM-anti-VCA antibody and IgG-anti-EA antibody. IgG-anti-EA antibody is linked to low levels of C3 and C4 in the patients with SjS, the significance of which needs to be addressed in further studies.

The association between Epstein-Barr virus and oral lichen planus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a relatively common inflammatory disease, with unclear etiology. A number of studies have linked Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) with OLP. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the available evidence regarding the potential association between EBV and OLP.

METHODS

Online databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Google Scholar) were searched from date of inception till May 2020. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: 1) observational studies that assessed the relationship between EBV and OLP, 2) the study comprised OLP patients and control subjects, 3) diagnosis of OLP was confirmed histopathologically, and 4) articles were in English. Studies without control groups, experimental studies, case reports, and reviews were excluded. The fixed-effects model was performed for meta-analyses using RevMan 5.3 software.

RESULTS

A total of 10 studies comprising 386 OLP cases and 304 controls were included. Of these, only 8 studies were eligible for the meta-analysis. The results of the quality assessment showed that only 2 studies were of high quality, while the remaining studies were of moderate quality. The results of the pooled eight studies revealed a significant positive association between EBV and OLP (OR = 4.41, 95% CI: [2.74, 7.11], P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present systematic review suggest that EBV infection is statistically associated with increased risk of OLP. However, these results are preliminary, and high-quality, large-scale studies are warranted to further explore the potential role of EBV in the pathogenesis of OLP.

Autoimmune diseases initiated by pathogen infection: Mathematical modeling

Many incurable diseases in humans are related to autoimmunity and are initially induced by a viral infection. Presumably, the virus has antigens with epitopes similar to those found in components of the host's body, thus allowing it to evade immune surveillance. Viral infection activates the immune system, which results in viral clearance. After infection, the enhanced immune system may begin to attack the host's cells, tissues, and organs. In this study, we developed a simple mathematical model in which we identify the conditions needed to trigger an autoimmune response. This model considers the dynamics of T helper (Th) cells, viruses, self-antigens, and memory T cells. Viral infection results in a temporal increase in viral abundance, which is suppressed by an increase in the number of Th cells. For the virus to be eliminated from the body, the level of Th cells must be maintained above a certain threshold to prevent viral replication, even in the absence of virus in the body. This role is realized by memory T cells produced during temporal viral infections. Thus, we investigated the conditions needed for the immune response to be enhanced after viral infection and concluded that cross-immunity must be weak for negative selection and T-cell activation but strong for antigen-suppressing reactions. We also discuss alternative models of cross-immunity and possible extensions of the model.

B and T Cells Driving Multiple Sclerosis: Identity, Mechanisms and Potential Triggers

Historically, multiple sclerosis (MS) has been viewed as being primarily driven by T cells. However, the effective use of anti-CD20 treatment now also reveals an important role for B cells in MS patients. The results from this treatment put forward T-cell activation rather than antibody production by B cells as a driving force behind MS. The main question of how their interaction provokes both B and T cells to infiltrate the CNS and cause local pathology remains to be answered. In this review, we highlight key pathogenic events involving B and T cells that most likely contribute to the pathogenesis of MS. These include (1) peripheral escape of B cells from T cell-mediated control, (2) interaction of pathogenic B and T cells in secondary lymph nodes, and (3) reactivation of B and T cells accumulating in the CNS. We will focus on the functional programs of CNS-infiltrating lymphocyte subsets in MS patients and discuss how these are defined by mechanisms such as antigen presentation, co-stimulation and cytokine production in the periphery. Furthermore, the potential impact of genetic variants and viral triggers on candidate subsets will be debated in the context of MS.

Hypothesis: bipolar disorder is an Epstein-Barr virus-driven chronic autoimmune disease - implications for immunotherapy

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic disease characterised by episodes of major depression and episodes of mania or hypomania, with a worldwide prevalence of 2.4%. The cause of BD is unknown. Here, I propose the hypothesis that BD is a chronic autoimmune disease caused by Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection of autoreactive B cells. It is postulated that EBV‐infected autoreactive B cells accumulate in the brain where they provide costimulatory survival signals to autoreactive T cells and differentiate into plasma cells producing pathogenic autoantibodies targeting brain components such as the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor. It is also proposed that the accumulation of EBV‐infected autoreactive B cells in the brain is a consequence of a genetically determined defect in the ability of CD8⁺ T cells to control EBV infection. The theory is supported by studies indicating that autoimmunity, EBV infection and CD8⁺ T‐cell deficiency all have roles in the pathogenesis of BD. According to the hypothesis, BD should be able to be treated by EBV‐specific T‐cell therapy and to be prevented by vaccination against EBV in early childhood. Exposure to sunlight or appropriate artificial light should also be beneficial in BD by augmenting CD8⁺ T‐cell control of EBV infection.

Viral infections and multiple sclerosis

The etiology and pathogenesis of MS is likely to involve multiple factors interacting with each other, and the role of infectious and viral agents is still under debate, however a consistent amount of studies suggests that some viruses are associated with the disease. The strongest documentation has come from the detection of viral nucleic acid or antigen or of an anti-viral antibody response in MS patients. A further step for the study of the mechanism viruses might be involved in can be made using in vitro and in vivo models. While in vitro models, based on glial and neural cell lines from various sources are widely used, in vivo animal models present challenges. Indeed neurotropic animal viruses are currently used to study demyelination in well-established models, but animal models of demyelination by human virus infection have only recently been developed, using animal gammaherpesviruses closely related to Epstein Barr virus (EBV), or using marmosets expressing the specific viral receptor for Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6). The present review will illustrate the main potential mechanisms of MS pathogenesis possibly associated with viral infections and viruses currently used to study demyelination in animal models. Then the viruses most strongly linked with MS will be discussed, in the perspective that more than one virus might have a role, with varying degrees of interaction, contributing to MS heterogeneity.

Epstein-Barr Virus in Multiple Sclerosis: Theory and Emerging Immunotherapies

New treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) focused on B cells have created an atmosphere of excitement in the MS community. B cells are now known to play a major role in disease, demonstrated by the highly impactful effect of a B cell-depleting antibody on controlling MS. The idea that a virus may play a role in the development of MS has a long history and is supported mostly by studies demonstrating a link between B cell-tropic Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and disease onset. Efforts to develop antiviral strategies for treating MS are underway. Although gaps remain in our understanding of the etiology of MS, the role, if any, of viruses in propagating pathogenic immune responses deserves attention.

Epstein-Barr Virus-Specific CD8 T Cells Selectively Infiltrate the Brain in Multiple Sclerosis and Interact Locally with Virus-Infected Cells: Clue for a Virus-Driven Immunopathological Mechanism

EBV establishes a lifelong and asymptomatic infection in most individuals and more rarely causes infectious mononucleosis and malignancies, like lymphomas. The virus is also strongly associated with MS, a chronic neuroinflammatory disease with unknown etiology. Infectious mononucleosis increases the risk of developing MS, and immune reactivity toward EBV is higher in persons with MS, indicating inadequate control of the virus. Previous studies have suggested that persistent EBV infection in the CNS stimulates an immunopathological response, causing bystander neural cell damage. To verify this, we need to identify the immune culprits responsible for the detrimental antiviral response in the CNS. In this study, we analyzed postmortem brains donated by persons with MS and show that CD8 cytotoxic T cells recognizing EBV enter the brain and interact locally with the virus-infected cells. This antiviral CD8 T cell-mediated immune response likely contributes to MS pathology.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous herpesvirus strongly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). However, the mechanisms linking EBV infection to MS pathology are uncertain. Neuropathological and immunological studies suggest that a persistent EBV infection in the CNS can stimulate a CD8 T-cell response aimed at clearing the virus but inadvertently causing CNS injury. Inasmuch as in situ demonstration of EBV-specific CD8 T cells and their effector function is missing, we searched for EBV-specific CD8 T cells in MS brain tissue using the pentamer technique. Postmortem brain samples from 12 donors with progressive MS and known HLA class I genotype were analyzed. Brain sections were stained with HLA-matched pentamers coupled with immunogenic peptides from EBV-encoded proteins, control virus (cytomegalovirus and influenza A virus) proteins, and myelin basic protein. CD8 T cells recognizing proteins expressed in the latent and lytic phases of the EBV life cycle were visualized in white matter lesions and/or meninges of 11/12 MS donors. The fraction (median value) of CD8 T cells recognizing individual EBV epitopes ranged from 0.5 to 2.5% of CNS-infiltrating CD8 T cells. Cytomegalovirus-specific CD8 T cells were detected at a lower frequency (≤0.3%) in brain sections from 4/12 MS donors. CNS-infiltrating EBV-specific CD8 T cells were CD107a positive, suggesting a cytotoxic phenotype, and stuck to EBV-infected cells. Together with local EBV dysregulation, selective enrichment of EBV-specific CD8 T cells in the MS brain supports the notion that skewed immune responses toward EBV contribute to inflammation causing CNS injury.

IMPORTANCE EBV establishes a lifelong and asymptomatic infection in most individuals and more rarely causes infectious mononucleosis and malignancies, like lymphomas. The virus is also strongly associated with MS, a chronic neuroinflammatory disease with unknown etiology. Infectious mononucleosis increases the risk of developing MS, and immune reactivity toward EBV is higher in persons with MS, indicating inadequate control of the virus. Previous studies have suggested that persistent EBV infection in the CNS stimulates an immunopathological response, causing bystander neural cell damage. To verify this, we need to identify the immune culprits responsible for the detrimental antiviral response in the CNS. In this study, we analyzed postmortem brains donated by persons with MS and show that CD8 cytotoxic T cells recognizing EBV enter the brain and interact locally with the virus-infected cells. This antiviral CD8 T cell-mediated immune response likely contributes to MS pathology.

New Viral Facets in Oral Diseases: The EBV Paradox

The oral cavity contributes to overall health, psychosocial well-being and quality of human life. Oral inflammatory diseases represent a major global health problem with significant social and economic impact. The development of effective therapies, therefore, requires deeper insights into the etiopathogenesis of oral diseases. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection results in a life-long persistence of the virus in the host and has been associated with numerous oral inflammatory diseases including oral lichen planus (OLP), periodontal disease and Sjogren’s syndrome (SS). There is considerable evidence that the EBV infection is a strong risk factor for the development and progression of these conditions, but is EBV a true pathogen? This long-standing EBV paradox yet needs to be solved. This review discusses novel viral aspects of the etiopathogenesis of non-tumorigenic diseases in the oral cavity, in particular, the contribution of EBV in OLP, periodontitis and SS, the tropism of EBV infection, the major players involved in the etiopathogenic mechanisms and emerging contribution of EBV-pathogenic bacteria bidirectional interaction. It also proposes the involvement of EBV-infected plasma cells in the development and progression of oral inflammatory diseases. A new direction for preventing and treating these conditions may focus on controlling pathogenic EBV with anti-herpetic drugs.

Risk of Multiple Sclerosis in Epstein-Barr Virus Infection

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuro-inflammatory, immune-mediated disorder of the central nervous system; however, less is known about its cause. It causes neurological disability in young adults, more commonly in women. Several risk factors including environmental, genetics, and infections have been identified, which contribute to the abnormal immune response. Viruses belonging to the Herpes family have been indicated as a potential risk for MS; their biological mechanisms are not known but several possibilities have been discussed. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the leading and most common virus associated with MS. It is a potential oncogenic virus that hosts the B lymphocytes and has been associated with numerous cancers such as Burkitt's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The risk of MS is low in patients who are EBV negative but increases by several folds in individuals who have a history of infectious mononucleosis (IM). Several ecological studies, co-occurring pathologies, and experimental laboratory-based research provide evidence to support the relationship between EBV and MS.

The role of Epstein-Barr virus infection in primary Sjögren's syndrome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this article is to draw attention to the role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) virus in the pathogenesis of the primary Sjögren's syndrome. The article introduces the problem of consequences of EBV acute infection, and its reactivation, in association with the immune response modulation by the virus and with an increased risk of developing systemic autoimmune diseases and EBV-associated cancers.

RECENT FINDINGS

The knowledge about the mechanisms by which the virus may stay for years in a latent phase, unrecognized by the host response immune cells is constantly expanding. There are several mechanisms and theories about EBV influence on the autoimmune process in Sjogren's syndrome (pSS), including the similarity (molecular mimicry) between viral EBNA-2 protein and Ro-60 antigen or EBER-1 and EBER-2 viral proteins and La antigen.

SUMMARY

The influence of EBV infection on the development and course of pSS has been proven. It has also been established that both EBV and pSS result in the increased risk of tumor (especially lymphoma) development. In the light of these findings, new ways to manage EBV infections are being sought. Optimal methods for assessing EBV infection status are being devised. Research also aims at finding therapies, which target EBV through the inhibition of the autoimmune process and of viral activity. The present article is an attempt to discuss the most important phenomena and elements linking EBV infection to the primary Sjögren's syndrome.

Molecular mimicry between Anoctamin 2 and Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen 1 associates with multiple sclerosis risk

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory, likely autoimmune disease of the central nervous system with a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors, among which Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is a strong suspect. We have previously identified increased autoantibody levels toward the chloride-channel protein Anoctamin 2 (ANO2) in MS. Here, IgG antibody reactivity toward ANO2 and EBV nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1) was measured using bead-based multiplex serology in plasma samples from 8,746 MS cases and 7,228 controls. We detected increased anti-ANO2 antibody levels in MS (P = 3.5 × 10^-36) with 14.6% of cases and 7.8% of controls being ANO2 seropositive (odds ratio [OR] = 1.6; 95% confidence intervals [95%CI]: 1.5 to 1.8). The MS risk increase in ANO2-seropositive individuals was dramatic when also exposed to 3 known risk factors for MS: HLA-DRB1*15:01 carriage, absence of HLA-A*02:01, and high anti-EBNA1 antibody levels (OR = 24.9; 95%CI: 17.9 to 34.8). Reciprocal blocking experiments with ANO2 and EBNA1 peptides demonstrated antibody cross-reactivity, mapping to ANO2 [aa 140 to 149] and EBNA1 [aa 431 to 440]. HLA gene region was associated with anti-ANO2 antibody levels and HLA-DRB1*04:01 haplotype was negatively associated with ANO2 seropositivity (OR = 0.6; 95%CI: 0.5 to 0.7). Anti-ANO2 antibody levels were not increased in patients from 3 other inflammatory disease cohorts. The HLA influence and the fact that specific IgG production usually needs T cell help provides indirect evidence for a T cell ANO2 autoreactivity in MS. We propose a hypothesis where immune reactivity toward EBNA1 through molecular mimicry with ANO2 contributes to the etiopathogenesis of MS.

The role of viral infections in the development of autoimmune diseases

The exact aetiology of most autoimmune diseases remains unknown, nonetheless, several factors contributing to the induction or exacerbation of autoimmune reactions have been suggested. These include the genetic profile and lifestyle of the affected individual in addition to environmental triggers such as bacterial, parasitic, fungal and viral infections. Infections caused by viruses usually trigger a potent immune response that is necessary for the containment of the infection; however, in some cases, a failure in the regulation of this immune response may lead to harmful immune reactions directed against the host's antigens. The autoimmune attack can be carried out by different arms and components of the immune system and through different possible mechanisms including molecular mimicry, bystander activation, and epitope spreading among others. In this review, we examine the data available for the involvement of viral infections in triggering or exacerbating autoimmune diseases in addition to discussing the mechanisms by which these viral infections and the immune pathways they trigger possibly contribute to the development of autoimmunity.

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in the common marmoset: a translationally relevant model for the cause and course of multiple sclerosis

Aging Western societies are facing an increasing prevalence of chronic autoimmune-mediated inflammatory disorders (AIMIDs) for which treatments that are safe and effective are scarce. One of the main reasons for this situation is the lack of animal models, which accurately replicate clinical and pathological aspects of the human diseases. One important AIMID is the neuroinflammatory disease multiple sclerosis (MS), for which the mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model has been frequently used in preclinical research. Despite some successes, there is a long list of experimental treatments that have failed to reproduce promising effects observed in murine EAE models when they were tested in the clinic. This frustrating situation indicates a wide validity gap between mouse EAE and MS. This monography describes the development of an EAE model in nonhuman primates, which may help to bridge the gap.

Differential serostatus of Epstein-Barr virus in Iranian MS patients with various clinical patterns

Background: Epidemiological evidence suggests a role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in triggering the pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The aim of this study was to assess the EBV-specific antibodies in MS patients with various clinical patterns and their association with the production of IFN-γ, IL-12, and IL-4 cytokines compared with healthy individuals.

Methods: We measured EBNA-1 IgG, VCA IgG, and production of IFN-γ, IL-12 and IL-4 cytokines in patients with different clinical patterns and healthy controls using ELISA method.

Results: There was a higher titer of anti-EBV antibodies in MS patients compared to healthy controls. SPMS patients generated higher EBNA-1 levels than those with RRMS and PPMS patients whereas; the level of VCA IgG was higher in the RRMS patients than PPMS. In PPMS patients, a significant increase was found in IFN-γ and IL-12 cytokines compared to other subtypes, whereas IL-4 cytokine had a decreased level compared to RRMS patients. Higher anti-EBV antibodies are associated with increased IL-12 cytokine in RRMS patients. However, no significant correlation was found between these antibodies and other secreted cytokines.

Conclusion: EBV infection is one of the strong risk factors for MS. Acting on these factors could be useful to decrease the incidence and disease exacerbation of MS. Study of the antibody levels to EBV virus could be useful for evaluating MS risk score in each clinical subtypes.

Epstein-Barr virus-specific T cell therapy for progressive multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence indicates a role for EBV in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). EBV-infected autoreactive B cells might accumulate in the CNS because of defective cytotoxic CD8+ T cell immunity. We sought to determine the feasibility and safety of treating progressive MS patients with autologous EBV-specific T cell therapy.

METHODS

An open-label phase I trial was designed to treat 5 patients with secondary progressive MS and 5 patients with primary progressive MS with 4 escalating doses of in vitro-expanded autologous EBV-specific T cells targeting EBV nuclear antigen 1, latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1), and LMP2A. Following adoptive immunotherapy, we monitored the patients for safety and clinical responses.

RESULTS

Of the 13 recruited participants, 10 received the full course of T cell therapy. There were no serious adverse events. Seven patients showed improvement, with 6 experiencing both symptomatic and objective neurological improvement, together with a reduction in fatigue, improved quality of life, and, in 3 patients, reduced intrathecal IgG production. All 6 patients receiving T cells with strong EBV reactivity showed clinical improvement, whereas only 1 of the 4 patients receiving T cells with weak EBV reactivity showed improvement (P = 0.033, Fisher's exact test).

CONCLUSION

EBV-specific adoptive T cell therapy was well tolerated. Clinical improvement following treatment was associated with the potency of EBV-specific reactivity of the administered T cells. Further clinical trials are warranted to determine the efficacy of EBV-specific T cell therapy in MS.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12615000422527.

FUNDING

MS Queensland, MS Research Australia, Perpetual Trustee Company Ltd., and donations from private individuals who wish to remain anonymous.

Rheumatoid arthritis–associated DNA methylation sites in peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Objectives

To identify novel DNA methylation sites significant for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and comprehensively understand their underlying pathological mechanism.

Methods

We performed (1) genome-wide DNA methylation and mRNA expression profiling in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from RA patients and health controls; (2) correlation analysis and causal inference tests for DNA methylation and mRNA expression data; (3) differential methylation genes regulatory network construction; (4) validation tests of 10 differential methylation positions (DMPs) of interest and corresponding gene expressions; (5) correlation between PARP9 methylation and its mRNA expression level in Jurkat cells and T cells from patients with RA; (6) testing the pathological functions of PARP9 in Jurkat cells.

Results

A total of 1046 DNA methylation positions were associated with RA. The identified DMPs have regulatory effects on mRNA expressions. Causal inference tests identified six DNA methylation–mRNA–RA regulatory chains (eg, cg00959259-PARP9-RA). The identified DMPs and genes formed an interferon-inducible gene interaction network (eg, MX1, IFI44L, DTX3L and PARP9). Key DMPs and corresponding genes were validated their differences in additional samples. Methylation of PARP9 was correlated with mRNA level in Jurkat cells and T lymphocytes isolated from patients with RA. The PARP9 gene exerted significant effects on Jurkat cells (eg, cell cycle, cell proliferation, cell activation and expression of inflammatory factor IL-2).

Conclusions

This multistage study identified an interferon-inducible gene interaction network associated with RA and highlighted the importance of PARP9 gene in RA pathogenesis. The results enhanced our understanding of the important role of DNA methylation in pathology of RA.

Gut microbiota, cannabinoid system and neuroimmune interactions: New perspectives in multiple sclerosis

The gut microbiota plays a fundamental role on the education and function of the host immune system. Immunological dysregulation is the cause of numerous human disorders such as autoimmune diseases and metabolic disorders frequently associated with inflammatory processes therefore is critical to explore novel mechanisms involved in maintaining the immune system homeostasis. The cannabinoid system and related bioactive lipids participate in multiple central and peripheral physiological processes that affect metabolic, gastrointestinal and neuroimmune regulatory mechanisms displaying a modulatory role and contributing to the maintenance of the organism's homeostasis. In this review, we gather the knowledge on the gut microbiota-endocannabinoids interactions and their impact on autoimmune disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis and particularly, multiple sclerosis (MS) as the best example of a CNS autoimmune disorder. Furthermore, we contribute to this field with new data on changes in many elements of the cannabinoid system in a viral model of MS after gut microbiota manipulation by both antibiotics and probiotics. Finally, we highlight new therapeutic opportunities, under an integrative view, targeting the eCBS and the commensal microbiota in the context of neuroinflammation and MS.

Environmental factors in the development of multiple sclerosis

Epidemiology of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has been intensively studied and we know now that its occurrence result from the combined action of genetic and environmental factors. There are significant geographic and temporal variations in MS incidence and the risk associated with the development of MS may be affected by many potential factors (including infections, climate, diet, etc.). But none of these factors has been identified as "causal". The accumulation of these different agents as well as their interactions probably contribute to the development of the disease.