The role of monocytes in the immunopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis

To systematize data on the role of monocytes in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Forty-six scientific publications (1990-2024) on the role of monocytes in the pathogenesis of EAE and MS were analyzed. Monocytes have been found to play an essential role in both the occurrence and persistence of autoimmune neuroinflammation. They penetrate the central nervous system (CNS) through the blood-brain barrier, produce pro-inflammatory cytokines, differentiate into macrophages/dendritic cells, and activate CD4+ T-cells. The change in both quantitative and functional characteristics of monocytes in MS is described. Monocytes are involved in all stages of the immunopathogenesis of EAE and MS and largely mediate autoimmune demyelination in the CNS. Therefore, they can be considered a potential therapeutic target for MS.