Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis: a model of demyelination and persistence of virus.

M. Rodriguez, E. Oleszak, J. Leibowitz

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

144 Scopus citations

Abstract

Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) causes immune-mediated demyelination in susceptible mice which is similar to human demyelinating disorders such as multiple sclerosis. In addition, the picornavirus persists within the central nervous system throughout the course of the chronic demyelinating disease. This article reviews the neuropathology, virology, immunology, and molecular biology of the model system. We analyze the possible mechanisms by which this virus induces demyelination and persists in the nervous system. Finally, we provide a hypothesis that the specificity of primary white matter destruction in the TMEV model depends on immune-sensitized cells which interact with viral antigen plus major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens on the surfaces of oligodendrocytes or myelin sheaths.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)325-365
Number of pages41
JournalCritical reviews in immunology
Volume7
Issue number4
StatePublished - 1987

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology

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