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Sex-Specific Environmental Impacts on Initiation and Progression of Multiple Sclerosis

The immunological mechanisms that contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS) differ between males and females. Females are 2-3 times more likely to develop MS compared to males, however the reason for this discrepancy is unknown. Once MS is established, there is a more inflammatory yet milder form of disease in females whereas males generally suffer from more severe disease and faster progression, neural degradation, and disability.

Citation:
Leffler J, Trend S, Gorman S, Hart PH. Sex-Specific Environmental Impacts on Initiation and Progression of Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurol. 2022;13.

Keywords:
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV); UV radiation; environmental risk factors; immune regulation; multiple sclerosis; sex hormones; vitamin D

Abstract:
The immunological mechanisms that contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS) differ between males and females. Females are 2-3 times more likely to develop MS compared to males, however the reason for this discrepancy is unknown. Once MS is established, there is a more inflammatory yet milder form of disease in females whereas males generally suffer from more severe disease and faster progression, neural degradation, and disability.