T-CELL FUNCTION IN A MURINE MODEL OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

The goal of these experiments is to identify the effector molecular required for neurologic deficits following TMEV- induced demyelination. CD8 T cells are critical for the destruction of axons. T cells work by recognizing Class I MHC molecules (view image). We have identified perforin as the critical molecule in axonal injury and death. Retrograde labeling experiments show preservation of neurons in mice deficient of CD8 T cells (view image).