Environmental risk factors for multiple sclerosis: A review with a focus on molecular mechanisms

Cullen O'Gorman, Robyn Lucas, Bruce Taylor

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    157 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disabling disease of the central nervous system commonly affecting young adults. Pathologically, there are patches of inflammation (plaques) with demyelination of axons and oligodendrocyte loss. There is a global latitude gradient in MS prevalence, and incidence of MS is increasing (particularly in females). These changes suggest a major role for environmental factors in causation of disease. We have reviewed the evidence and potential mechanisms of action for three exposures: vitamin D, Epstein Barr virus and cigarette smoking. Recent advances supporting gene-environment interactions are reviewed. Further research is needed to establish mechanisms of causality in humans and to explore preventative strategies.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)11718-11752
    Number of pages35
    JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Volume13
    Issue number9
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Sept 2012

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