Die Charakterisierung der Makrophagen und Mikroglia, sowie der T-Zellentzündung und Störungen der Blut-Hirn-Schranke bei unterschiedlichen Subtypen der entzündlichen Entmarkung
The characterization of macrophages and microglia, as well as T cell inflammation and blood-brain barrier dysfunction in different subtypes of inflammatory demyelination
by Mareike Gloth
Date of Examination:2025-10-13
Date of issue:2025-10-06
Advisor:Prof. Dr. Imke Metz
Referee:Prof. Dr. Carsten Lüder
Referee:Prof. Dr. Dieter Kube
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Description:Dissertation
Abstract
English
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by inflammatory demyelination, with histopathological studies revealing distinct lesion subtypes. This dissertation focused on the characterization of macrophages, microglia, T-cell infiltration, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) disturbances in early active lesions of MS subtypes II and III. Using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and MRI analyses, cellular immune profiles and structural alterations were investigated. Subtype II lesions were associated with the infiltration of peripheral macrophages, deposition of antibodies and complement, and a tendency toward higher numbers of CD4-positive effector T cells. In contrast, subtype III lesions showed predominant activation of resident microglia, an increase in CD8-positive cytotoxic T cells, and distal oligodendrogliopathy. BBB disturbances were present in both subtypes but were more pronounced in subtype II. Moreover, subtype II lesions displayed sharply demarcated borders, while subtype III lesions exhibited diffusely defined, partly Baló-like concentric demyelination patterns. These findings support the concept of fundamentally distinct immunopathological mechanisms in lesion development in MS. While subtype II is primarily characterized by infiltration of extrinsic immune cells and antibody-mediated damage, subtype III is driven by intrinsic microglial activation and neurodegenerative processes. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms may contribute to the development of more individualized and targeted therapeutic approaches in MS.
Keywords: Multiple sclerosis; Inflammation; Blood-brain barrier; Macrophages; Microglia; T cells
