Immunogenetic aspects of multiple sclerosis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v15i5.51028Keywords:
Multiple sclerosis, Immunogenetics, HLA-DRB1*1501, Th1 lymphocytes, Th17 lymphocytes, Autoimmunity.Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, characterized by demyelination and progressive neurodegeneration, in which immunogenetic factors play a central role in susceptibility and clinical progression. The HLA-DRB1*1501 allele stands out, as it is associated with aberrant activation of the adaptive immune response. The present study aims to critically review the main immunogenetic aspects of multiple sclerosis, with emphasis on the role of the HLA-DRB1*1501 allele, on immune pathways mediated by Th1 and Th17 cells, and on the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Method: This is a systematized literature review conducted according to the recommendations of the PRISMA 2020 protocol. The search was performed in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and LILACS databases, covering studies published between 2010 and 2025. Original articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses addressing immunogenetics and immune response in MS were included. Results: The analyzed studies demonstrate a potential association between the HLA-DRB1*1501 allele and an increased risk of MS, in addition to highlighting the central role of Th1 and Th17 cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the breakdown of immune tolerance, neuroglial inflammation, and disease progression. Environmental factors and other associations may modulate genetic expression and immune response. Conclusion: MS results from a complex interaction between immunogenetic predisposition and environmental factors, with HLA-DRB1*1501 being one of the main possible risk determinants. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for the development of personalized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ana Karoliny Silva Torrejais, Rafaela Queiroz Bôsco, Gabriel Ribeiro Castro, Ana Maisa Passos-Silva
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