The Role of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Multiple Sclerosis and Its Animal Model

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), a heterogeneous cell population that consists of mostly immature myeloid cells, are immunoregulatory cells mainly characterized by their suppressive functions. Emerging findings have revealed the involvement of MDSCs in multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). MS is an autoimmune and degenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination, axon loss, and inflammation. Studies have reported accumulation of MDSCs in inflamed tissues and lymphoid organs of MS patients and EAE mice, and these cells display dual functions in EAE. However, the contribution of MDSCs to MS/EAE pathogenesis remains unclear. This review aims to summarize our current understanding of MDSC subsets and their possible roles in MS/EAE pathogenesis. We also discuss the potential utility and associated obstacles in employing MDSCs as biomarkers and cell-based therapies for MS.

Automated summary

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), a heterogeneous cell population consisting mostly of immature myeloid cells, have been found to play a role in multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Accumulation of MDSCs has been observed in inflamed tissues and lymphoid organs of MS patients and EAE mice, but their contribution to the pathogenesis of MS/EAE remains unclear. This review aims to summarize our current understanding of MDSC subsets and their potential roles in MS/EAE pathogenesis. We also discuss the potential utility and obstacles in using MDSCs as biomarkers and cell-based therapies for MS.