Animal models and pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis
On-demand webinar
Summary:
In this webinar, Professor Gavin Giovannoni explores the role of animal models in understanding multiple sclerosis (MS). The session traces the origins of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), developed during early rabies vaccine research, and explains how EAE became the cornerstone for testing MS therapies. Professor Giovannoni reviews various models, from mice and rats to primates, and highlights their strengths and limitations.
A key focus is the spontaneous encephalomyelitis observed in Japanese macaques, which closely mimics MS pathology and may offer insights into the role of gamma herpes viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus, in MS pathogenesis. The webinar also examines the disease cascade: genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, autoimmune activation, lesion formation, and progression to neurodegeneration. Finally, Professor Giovannoni discusses biomarkers for monitoring MS activity, including MRI scans, brain volume metrics, cytokine panels, and neurofilament levels.
This session offers a comprehensive overview of how animal models inform MS research and therapeutic strategies.
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