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Pregnancy and Multiple Sclerosis ( MS ): A Beneficial Association. Possible therapeutic application of embryo‐specific Pre‐implantation Factor ( PIF *)
Author(s) -
Paidas Michael J.,
Annunziato Jack,
Romano Michael,
Weiss Lola,
Or Reuven,
Barnea Eytan R.
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
american journal of reproductive immunology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.071
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1600-0897
pISSN - 1046-7408
DOI - 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2012.01170.x
Subject(s) - pregnancy , multiple sclerosis , medicine , inflammation , immune system , disease , immunology , bioinformatics , biology , genetics
A typical autoimmune neuro‐inflammatory disease ( NID ), multiple sclerosis ( MS ), is more prevalent in women than in men. Majority of patients with MS are of child‐bearing age; therefore, occurrence in pregnancy is common. Herein, we review proposed disease mechanisms and suggest therapeutic interventions, focusing on the remarkable pregnancy‐induced protection against MS – insofar considered as best, albeit temporary therapy for such harsh NID . Current drugs used for MS therapy in pregnancy are described. Role of non‐pregnancy‐specific agents considered involved in amelioration of disease is also presented. This review highlights pregnancy‐derived neuro‐protective agents, proposing that unique pregnancy‐induced immune‐protective environment is because of the conceptus and its direct action. The essential role of pre‐implantation factor ( PIF ) in pregnancy is delineated. Finally, PIF immune‐modulatory effects and efficacy in chronic model of neuro‐inflammation to reduce inflammation and paralysis coupled with neural regeneration is presented. Overall, we postulate that this embryo‐derived‐compound holds great promise to improve MS and possibly neuro‐inflammation in general.