Vitamin B12, demyelination, remyelination and repair in multiple sclerosis

J Neurol Sci. 2005 Jun 15;233(1-2):93-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jns.2005.03.009.

Abstract

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and vitamin B12 deficiency share common inflammatory and neurodegenerative pathophysiological characteristics. Due to similarities in the clinical presentations and MRI findings, the differential diagnosis between vitamin B12 deficiency and MS may be difficult. Additionally, low or decreased levels of vitamin B12 have been demonstrated in MS patients. Moreover, recent studies suggest that vitamin B12, in addition to its known role as a co-factor in myelin formation, has important immunomodulatory and neurotrophic effects. These observations raise the questions of possible causal relationship between the two disorders, and suggest further studies of the need to close monitoring of vitamin B12 levels as well as the potential requirement for supplementation of vitamin B12 alone or in combination with the immunotherapies for MS patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Demyelinating Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Multiple Sclerosis / diet therapy*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / metabolism
  • Multiple Sclerosis / physiopathology
  • Myelin Sheath / drug effects
  • Myelin Sheath / physiology
  • Vitamin B 12 / therapeutic use*
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / metabolism
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / physiopathology
  • Wound Healing / drug effects*

Substances

  • Vitamin B 12