Keywords
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that leads to demyelination and neurodegeneration. Currently the therapeutic strategy relies mainly on the reducing of inflammation by immunosuppressants. Now there are no neuroprotective agents available for the progres- sion of the disease.
The aim of the study is to discuss modern approaches to the evaluation of neurodegeneration in MS and potential targets that could be useful for protecting axons from degeneration. Among them – Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors, antiapoptotic and antioxidant agents, sex hormones, statins, ion channel blo- ckers and molecules that prevent glutamate excitotoxicity.
Axonal degeneration is a characteristic feature of MS and prevails in the progressive form. Protecting axons from metabolic changes caused by inflammation, demyelination, or direct metabolic changes is the main task in the coming years in the field of MS therapy. Currently, many molecules are undergoing clinical trials as potential neuroprotective agents.
Available experimental models for neuroprotectors search do not fully mimic the progressive forms of MS, for which neuroprotection strategies may be most effective. Further serious efforts are needed to improve available or develop new experimental animal models to evaluate neuroprotection.
At present, neuroprotection in MS remains one of the most promising areas in the concept of this disease treating.