The molecular mechanisms underlying myelin sheath destruction in multiple
sclerosis lesions remain unresolved. With immunogold−labeled peptides
of myelin antigens and high−resolution microscopy, techniques that can
detect antigen−specific antibodies in situ, we have identified
autoantibodies specific for the central nervous system myelin antigen myelin/oligodendrocyte
glycoprotein. These autoantibodies were specifically bound to disintegrating
myelin around axons in lesions of acute multiple sclerosis and the marmoset
model of allergic encephalomyelitis. These findings represent direct evidence
that autoantibodies against a specific myelin protein mediate target membrane
damage in central nervous system demyelinating disease.
