Integration of lectin-glycan recognition systems and immune cell networks in CNS inflammation

MENDEZ-HUERGO, SANTIAGO P.; MALLER, SEBASTIAN M.; FAREZ, MAURICIO F.; MARIÑO, KARINA; CORREALE, JORGE; RABINOVICH, GABRIEL A.

CYTOKINE & GROWTH FACTOR REVIEWS

ELSEVIER SCI LTD

Lugar: Amsterdam; Año: 2014 vol. 25 p. 247 - 255

1359-6101

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive degenerative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS), characterized by inflammation, demyelination and axonal loss. While the majority of MS patients experience relapsing-remitting symptoms followed by a secondary progressive phase, about 10?15% patients exhibit a primary progressive disease involving continuous progression from its onset. Here we review the role of lectin?glycan recognition systems, including those concerning siglecs, C-type lectins and galectins in the pathogenesis of MS and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Particularly, we will focus on the role of galectins in the fate of T cells, dendritic cells and CNS cell populations. Understanding the regulatory circuits governed by lectin?glycan interactions and their association with disease-associated cytokine networks will contribute to develop novel therapeutic strategies in MS.