LOTUS as a novel biomarker of multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is considered to be an autoimmune demyelinating disorder, but recent studies showed that axonal degeneration is also an important pathological feature of MS. Indeed, Nogo receptor‐1 and its ligands have been identified as key molecules for axonal degeneration in various neurological disorders, including MS. Lateral olfactory tract usher substance, an endogenous Nogo receptor‐1 antagonist, promotes axonal growth and regeneration by blocking Nogo receptor‐1 signaling. We found that the lateral olfactory tract usher substance level in cerebrospinal fluid was inversely correlated with MS disease activity. Here, we review the association between the key molecules in axonal degeneration/regeneration and MS, and discuss the potential application of lateral olfactory tract usher substance as a biomarker and therapeutic target of MS.

The Implication of Reticulons (RTNs) in Neurodegenerative Diseases: From Molecular Mechanisms to Potential Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches

“…Additionally, a negative correlation between mRNA and protein levels of LOTUS, and disease activity as well as the extent of neuroinflammation, indicate the usefulness of this marker for accurate diagnosis and prognosis in both early and progressive phases of MS [ 72 , 74 ]. The authors claim that fluctuations in LOTUS levels might reflect the degree of axonal degeneration and the extent of neuroinflammation, which are responsible for the progression and functional disability in MS [ 74 , 82 ]. These findings confirm that CSF LOTUS levels might reflect disease burden and provide a better understanding of the pathogenesis of MS.…”

Biomarkers of multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

“…Takahashi and Tanaka reviewed lateral olfactory tract usher substance (LOTUS) as a biomarker of MS disease activity. 8 LOTUS is an endogenous antagonist of Nogo receptor-1, and enhances axonal growth and regeneration. 9 In addition to demyelination, Nogo receptor-1 signaling-mediated axonal degeneration is another important pathological feature of MS.…”

“…Takahashi and Tanaka reviewed lateral olfactory tract usher substance (LOTUS) as a biomarker of MS disease activity . LOTUS is an endogenous antagonist of Nogo receptor‐1, and enhances axonal growth and regeneration .…”