Studies of cytokines in multiple sclerosis (MS) have shown that immune mechanisms connected with disturbance of the synthesis of cytokines probably play critical roles in the initiation and prolongation of MS. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 45 patients with active secondary progressive MS were randomized to three groups of 15 patients, each receiving a short course of antibodies to IFN-gamma, to tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, or a placebo. After 12 months with analysis of disability (Expanded Disability Status Scale scores), accompanied by interval determinations of lymphocyte subpopulations, cytokine production levels, MRI, and evoked potentials, it was found that only patients who received antibodies to IFN-gamma showed statistically significant improvement compared to the placebo group--a significant increase in the number of patients without confirmed disability progression. This was supported by MRI data (a decrease in the number of active lesions) and systemic changes in cytokine status (a decrease in IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and IFN-gamma concentrations in supernatants of actvated blood cells of these MS patients and an increase in TGF-beta production). Neutralization of IFN-gamma could be a new approach to treating secondary progressive MS. Long-term administration of humanized monoclonal antibodies to IFN-gamma and simultaneous use of antibodies to IFN-gamma together with IFN-beta products are planned.

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Introduction. The state of the blood flow within the capillaries and close blood vessels is highly important in practice for the revealing of pathogenetic mechanisms of both systemic and local circulatory disorders. Aim of the study was to define the parameters of microcirculation and the level of blood flow fluctuations (flux) in the distal segments of upper and lower limbs (in fingers of hands and toes of feet) in children of 6–7 years old; and to describe the possible differences in the mechanisms of blood flow modulation in boys and girls. Materials and methods. Skin microcirculation was assessed in middle fingers of hands and great toes of feet in children of 6-7 years old (14 girls and 7 boys in prone position) by means of laser doppler flowmetry. Results. The ranges for parameters of microcirculation (PM) for distal segments of upper and lower limbs in children of mentioned age group were defined, also it was shown that the PM are significantly lower in the lower limbs comparing to those of the upper limbs (both in groups of girls and boys). Asymmetry of PM in the feet was not found; the features of right hand-left hand asymmetry for PM in girls and boys are described. The analysis of modulation of blood flow fluctuations (fluxmotions) of different frequencies showed the profound role of vasomotor (myogenic) rhythm for regulation of microcirculation. Conclusion. Increased neurogenic influences on the modulation of fluxmotions in girls of 6-7 years old may be an evidence of the ongoing development of the mechanisms of blood flow regulation, particularly the association with the growth rate of girls is possible.

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