Recent progress in treatment for multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is currently considered to be an autoimmune disease mediated by myelin antigenspecific Th 1 cells. Although the mechanism of MS remains to be elucidated, new disease modifying drugs have recently been introduced to MS treatment. Interferon-β, copolymer 1 and intravenous administration of immunoglobulins have been shown to significantly reduce the relapse rate, progression of disease and increase of MRI lesion load in MS. However, as the effects of these drugs are nonspecific immunomodulation, specific immunomodulation therapy for MS is called for. T cell vaccination, altered peptide ligand and oral tolerance are possible candidates for specific immune therapy for MS. As in Asians there is such a distinct subtype of MS as HLA-DPB 1 * 0501-associated opticospinal MS, it is important to look for unique immune therapy for opticospinal MS in future.