COX-2 inhibitors ameliorate experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis through modulating IFN-gamma and IL-10 production by inhibiting T-bet expression.

The COX-2 inhibitors Rofecoxib (Rof) and Lumiracoxib (Lum) were evaluated in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the model of multiple sclerosis (MS). Administration of Rof and Lum significantly reduced the incidence and severity of EAE, which was associated with the inhibition of MOG 35-55 lymphocyte recall response, anti-MOG 35-55 T cell responses, and modulation of cytokines production. In vitro Rof and Lum inhibited primary T cells proliferation and modulated cytokine production. These findings highlight the fact that Rof and Lum likely prevents EAE by modulating Th1/Th2 response, and suggest its utility in the treatment of MS and other autoimmune diseases.