We propose to examine multiple sclerosis brain tissue (both plaque and normal-appearing white matter), for the presence of macrophage subpopulations, based on the phenotypic expression of different monocyte/macrophage antigenic markers. We will use single and double immunoperoxidase staining methods with a panel of monoclonal and heterologous antibodies to identify the different macrophage populations, and their topographical relationship to lymphocytes (both T and B cells), and to endogenous brain cells in frozen multiple sclerosis brain tissues. Factors known to be produced by stimulated macrophages and lymphocytes (eg, interleukin-2, prostaglandins) will be investigated in multiple sclerosis brain tissue, using antibodies to these cell products. The origin of the central nervous system macrophages will be studied by testing for the antigens expressed on central nervous system macrophages, as compared with microglial cells. Results obtained from multiple sclerosis specimens will be compared to those from normal brain and from other neurological disease tissue. Much is known about the behavior and regulation of macrophages in lymphoid tissues. We will identify similarities and differences between macrophages in lymphoid tissue versus macrophages in multiple sclerosis brain tissue. This study will furnish information about the central nervous system macrophages, with implications as to the mechanism for controlling and modifying the function of these cells, thus providing data for new protocols in the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01NS021411-02
Application #
3402505
Study Section
Immunological Sciences Study Section (IMS)
Project Start
1985-01-01
Project End
1987-06-30
Budget Start
1986-01-01
Budget End
1987-06-30
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1986
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Southern California
Department
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
041544081
City
Los Angeles
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
90033
Hofman, F M; Hinton, D R; Baemayr, J et al. (1991) Lymphokines and immunoregulatory molecules in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Clin Immunol Immunopathol 58:331-42
Hofman, F M; Hinton, D R; Johnson, K et al. (1989) Tumor necrosis factor identified in multiple sclerosis brain. J Exp Med 170:607-12