Ebv Infection and Vitamin D in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Publisher



Marashi SM¹ ; Shoja Z²
Source: Nutrition and Lifestyle in Neurological Autoimmune Diseases: Multiple Sclerosis Published:2017

Abstract

Despite major research efforts in the past few decades, the etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) is still not fully understood; although, the role of both genetic and environmental risk factors has been well documented since mid-1980s. Given the fact that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and suboptimal vitamin D levels are considered as potential risk factors in genetically predisposed individuals, it is not yet clear whether EBV infection and vitamin D exert joint effects or act independently in these patients. While findings from different studies provide evidence for both scenarios, recent evidences highlight biomarker correlates in patients with MS together with a complex interplay between EBV infection and vitamin D status via genetic and epigenetic factors. This chapter aims to overview the updated role of EBV infection and vitamin D status in MS patients with the focus on plausible mechanisms involved and, more generally, the global imprint that these risk factors may have on genetic and immune systems in these patients. © 2017 Elsevier Inc.