Early immune cell changes may predict MS

A recent study has found that CD8-positive T cells play a key role in the early stages of multiple sclerosis (MS). The research, which involved studying identical twins where one twin has MS and the other does not show symptoms, revealed that CD8 T cells undergo specific changes before symptoms of MS appear. These changes include increased movement and a heightened ability to promote inflammation.

The study also found these CD8 T cells in both individuals with MS and those at high risk with early inflammatory signs, suggesting they may be early contributors to the disease. These findings could pave the way for new treatments and diagnostic tools to detect and manage MS earlier.

The research shows that CD8 T cells exhibit increased migratory and inflammatory behaviour before any symptoms of MS become evident. Identical twin studies provided critical insights, as early changes in CD8 T cells were directly linked to the onset of MS in those affected.

These discoveries may lead to advances in diagnosing MS at an earlier stage and potentially open up new approaches to treatment that could help prevent or slow down the disease’s progression.