Human herpesvirus 6 infection as a trigger of multiple sclerosis: an update of recent literature

Abstract

Background This is an update on the existing evidence regarding a relationship between infection with human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and multiple sclerosis (MS) in order to contribute on the attempt to define the nature and strength of that relationship. Results Study quality was assessed using the criteria proposed by Moore and Wolfson and by the classification criteria used by the Canadian Task Force on the Periodic Health Examination. Studies were categorized both by experimental technique and by quality (high [A], intermediate [B], and low [C]) as determined by the Moore and Wolfson criteria. Overall, 27 (90%) of 30 studies, 18 (86%) of which were classified as A quality, reached a statistically significant result. According to the Canadian Task Force classification, all studies were categorized as evidence of qualityII-1. Limitations of the available experimental techniques and perspectives for future research are discussed. Conclusions The current review continues to emphasize the need for further, objective, evidence-based examination of the relationship between HHV-6 infection and multiple sclerosis.

Analysis of herpesvirus infection and genome single nucleotide polymorphism risk factors in multiple sclerosis, Volga federal district, Russia

“…Our data confirms the potential link between herpesvirus infection and MS. We found significant association between HHV6 seropositivity and diagnosis of MS. This data corroborates previous observations where HHV6 infection was linked to MS ( 29 , 65 – 67 ). Interestingly, EBV was also identified as a risk factor for MS ( 19 , 24 ).…”

“…In conclusion, we have found an association between HHV6 sero-positivity and MS diagnosis. This data contributes to our understanding the role of herpesvirus infection as risk factor of MS. Two viruses, EBV and HHV6, are frequently associated with MS ( 24 , 67 , 113 , 114 ). Also, childhood herpesvirus infection increases the risk of MS diagnosis ( 115 ).…”

Contribution of Intravital Neuroimaging to Study Animal Models of Multiple Sclerosis

“…The growing evidence of a possible virus-triggered origin of MS brought up models of virus-induced demyelination to explore its potential etiology [34][35][36]. Usually, mice are infected with Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis (TMEV) or murine hepatitis (MHV) viruses.…”

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

“…Another herpesvirus, Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is widely spread in the population and has also been associated with neuroimmunologic disorders, including MS ( 101 ). Animal and in vitro models have demonstrated that CD46, a complement regulator involved in complement inhibition, is a receptor for the HHV-6 ( 102 , 103 ).…”