Selected Cytokines and Matrix Metalloproteinases in Pathogenesis and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive autoimmune disease of the nervous system (NS). Axonal degeneration, demyelination, and inflammation are the main mechanisms leading to the development of this disorder. In the course of MS, parenchymal cells in the NS are activated to produce cytokines and cytokine-induced proteins, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The presence of these enzymes and cytokines in the central nervous system (CNS) during an inflammatory response may suggest their involvement in the pathogenesis or progression of MS. A precise determination of the role of cytokines and MMPs in the development of MS may contribute to a better understanding of the causes of this disease and to preventing its progression. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the role of selected cytokines and MMPs in the pathogenesis of MS and its potential treatments. It was shown that specific cytokines and MMPs act as critical pathophysiological drivers and biomarkers in MS. While acute neuroinflammation and blood–brain barrier disruption are mediated by interleukin (IL)-3, IL-5, IL-6, and MMP-9, progressive neurodegeneration correlates with MMP-3 and constitutive MMP-2. In conclusion, MMP-1 serves as a diagnostic biomarker that differentiates early MS from clinically isolated syndrome, whereas IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13 represent key immunomodulatory targets for neuroprotective strategies.