Decreased CD14+ CCR2+ monocytes in active multiple sclerosis

The expression of CCR2, a receptor to MCP-1, on blood monocytes was measured in 15 patients with active multiple sclerosis (MS). We determined the ratio of CD4 + CXCR3 + cells (Th1), CD4 + CCR4 + cells (Th2), and CD14 + CCR2 + cells using 3-color flow cytometry. The CD4 + CXCR3 + /CD4 + CCR4 + ratio, which represents the Th1/Th2 balance, was significantly elevated in the active MS patients compared to the healthy controls. The expression of CCR2 and CD14 on the monocytes in the MS patients was markedly decreased. There was a significant negative correlation between the Th1/Th2 ratio and the CCR2 and CD14 expression on monocytes. In the pathogenesis of MS. the CD14 + CCR2 + blood monocytes may play an important role in the shift from active MS to a state in which the disease is in remission. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.