The relationship of the mechanisms of the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis and the expression of endogenous retroviruses

Abstract

© 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. Two human endogenous retroviruses of the HERV‐W family can act as cofactors triggering multiple sclerosis (MS): MS‐associated retrovirus (MSRV) and ERVWE1. Endogenous retroviral elements are believed to have integrated in our ancestors’ DNA millions of years ago. Their involvement in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including neurodegenerative pathologies, has been demonstrated. Numerous studies have shown a correlation between the deterioration of patients’ health and increased expression of endogenous retroviruses. The exact causes and mechanisms of endogenous retroviruses activation remains unknown, which hampers development of therapeutics. In this review, we will summarize the main characteristics of human endogenous W retroviruses and describe the putative mechanisms of activation, including epigenetic mechanisms, humoral factors as well as the role of the exogenous viral infections.