Methyl-CpG-Binding Protein 2 Emerges as a Central Player in Multiple Sclerosis and Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders

Cell Mol Neurobiol. 2023 Nov;43(8):4071-4101. doi: 10.1007/s10571-023-01432-7. Epub 2023 Nov 13.ABSTRACTMECP2 and its product methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) are associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), which are inflammatory, autoimmune, and demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). However, the mechanisms and pathways regulated by MeCP2 in immune activation in favor of MS and NMOSD are not fully understood. We summarize findings that use the binding properties of MeCP2 to identify its targets, particularly the genes recognized by MeCP2 and associated with several neurological disorders. MeCP2 regulates gene expression in neurons, immune cells and during development by modulating various mechanisms and pathways. Dysregulation of the MeCP2 signaling pathway has been associated with several disorders, including neurological and autoimmune diseases. A thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying MeCP2 function can provide new therapeutic strategies for these conditions. The nervous system is the primary system affected in MeCP2-associated disorders, and other systems may also contribute to MeCP2 action through its target genes. MeCP2 signaling pathways provide promise as potential therapeutic targets in progressive MS and NMOSD. MeCP2 not only increases susceptibility and induces anti-inflammatory responses in immune sites but also leads to a chronic increase in pro-inflammatory cytokin...
Source: Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology - Category: Cytology Authors: Source Type: research