Cytokine-producing cells in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and multiple sclerosis.

In both multiple sclerosis (MS) and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, the regulation of the cytokine spectrum and production is likely to have a decisive influence on disease outcome. Studies of cytokines, however, are hampered by the autocrine or paracrine nature of cytokines. Studies of cellular production by messenger RNA detection or cellular secretion are therefore necessary. Collective data suggest that certain cytokines associated with the TH1 phenotype or lymphocytes, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha, lymphotoxin, interleukin-12, and interferon gamma, may promote disease, while cytokines produced by the TH2 subset, such as interleukin-10, may limit disease. In addition, transforming growth factor beta is a putative disease downregulator. Increased knowledge in this field will likely lead to improved therapy for MS patients.