Intrathecal interleukin-6 levels are associated with progressive disease and clinical severity in multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background MS is characterized by persistent central nervous system (CNS) inflammation. Investigating the CNS-compartmentalized inflammation associated with progressive MS could uncover new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) interleukin-6 (IL-6) can be markedly el...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
BMC
2025-04-01
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| Series: | BMC Neurology |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-025-04145-0 |
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| Summary: | Abstract Background MS is characterized by persistent central nervous system (CNS) inflammation. Investigating the CNS-compartmentalized inflammation associated with progressive MS could uncover new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) interleukin-6 (IL-6) can be markedly elevated in neuroinflammatory conditions, such as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease. This study investigated the association between CSF IL-6 levels, progressive disease, and disease severity in MS. Methods Advanced technologies, including single-molecule arrays and microfluidics, were used to analyse CSF samples from individuals with MS at the time of diagnosis for IL-6. IL-6 levels were then correlated with clinical course, disease severity, and other known biomarkers associated with inflammation and disease severity. Results Elevated IL-6 levels in the CSF were found in individuals with progressive MS, and CSF IL-6 showed positive correlations with the Expanded Disability Status Scale, the Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score, and CSF glial fibrillary acidic protein levels. Conclusions IL-6 in CSF indicates ongoing CNS inflammation and may contribute to the compartmentalized inflammation associated with disease progression and overall disease severity. |
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| ISSN: | 1471-2377 |