The envelope protein (ENV) of the human endogenous retrovirus type W is implicated in inflammatory reactions in multiple sclerosis (MS) but also interferes with oligodendroglial maturation. A neutralizing antibody GNbAC1 has been developed and successfully been tested in clinical trials.
Objectives and methods:
We stimulated primary oligodendroglial cells with ENV upon preincubation with GNbAC1 and assessed for nitrosative stress and myelin expression.
Results:
Neutralization of ENV by GNbAC1 reduces its ability to induce stress reactions resulting in a rescue of myelin expression.
Conclusions:
Beyond immune cell modulation, this monoclonal antibody may therefore help to overcome the oligodendroglial differentiation blockade in MS.
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