Triggering multiple sclerosis: infection with Epstein-Barr virus activates multiple pre-existing autoreactive B and T cells

Three recent publications 1 , 2 , 3 show that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) activates pre-existing autoreactive T cells by altering the immunopeptidome and inducing molecular mimicry, while also preventing the elimination of autoreactive B cells. These multiple autoimmune responses against the central nervous system (CNS) triggered by EBV might then synergistically precipitate multiple sclerosis (MS) within years after encountering this virus.