Post-onset intermittent fasting attenuates neuroinflammation and demyelination via a TRIB3–PERK–autophagy axis in an EAE model of multiple sclerosis

Prior studies have demonstrated therapeutic benefits of intermittent fasting (IF) in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), yet they have predominantly examined prophylactic protocols or implemented short-term post-induction interventions, leaving the therapeutic window undefined and the underlying mechanisms unelucidated. Here, we systematically evaluate intermittent fasting (IF) initiated at a clinically critical juncture of 10 days post-induction (EAE_postIF), which coincides with early symptom onset, demonstrating significant attenuation of disease progression, reduced neuroinflammation, and preserved myelin integrity. Mechanistically, EAE_postIF activates a TRIB3–PERK–autophagy axis in the spinal cord, evidenced by increased ATF4, CHOP, and TRIB3 expression and suppression of mTOR signaling. In TRIB3-deficient mice, the beneficial effects of IF are partially attenuated, with clinical and histological improvements reduced relative to wild-type controls yet remaining superior to untreated cohorts. These findings establish a well-defined therapeutic window for IF intervention in neuroinflammation and identify TRIB3–PERK–autophagy signaling as a critical mediator, supporting IF as a viable metabolic strategy to complement existing MS therapies.