The Role of Cobalamin on Interleukin 10, Osteopontin, and Related MicroRNAs in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Considering how vitamin B12 or cobalamin affects the immune system, especially inflammation and the formation of the myelin sheath, it appears as a complementary therapy for MS by affecting some signaling pathways.
 Recently diagnosed MS patients were divided into two groups (n=30). One group received interferon-beta (IFN-β or Avonex), and another received IFN-β+B12 for six months. Blood samples were taken before and after treatments. Interleukin (IL)-10 and osteopontin (OPN) levels in the plasma were determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, and the expression of microRNA (miR)-106a, miR-299a, and miR-146a by real-time PCR.
 IFN-β neither changed the IL-10 plasma levels nor miR106a and miR-299a expression, but it led to a remarkable decrease in OPN concentration and enhancement in let-7c and miR-146a expression. There was a significant decrease in IL-10, OPN plasma levels, miR-106a expression, and a substantial increase in let-7c and miR-146a expression in IFN-β+B12, treated group. There was no correlation between IL-10 and OPN with related miRNAs in the two treatment groups. 
 Our study indicated that B12 could be a complementary treatment in MS that may influence the disease improvement.

The Interplay of Interferon-Beta, Cobalamin, and MicroRNA Regulation in Multiple Sclerosis Therapy

“…A salient finding in this study is the differential impact of IFN-β and B12 combination therapy on miR-106a and let-7c, both of which have previously been implicated in inflammation and autoimmune responses [2,3]. Cobalamin notably decreases miR-106a expression, resulting in enhanced IL-10 levels, and consequently reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17, IL-22, and TNF-α.…”

“…Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, is a complex disorder affecting millions globally, which necessitates innovative therapeutic strategies [1]. In the quest for novel treatments, we have conducted a recent study that has provided crucial insights into the potential synergistic effects of interferonbeta (IFN-β) and cobalamin (Vitamin B12) in MS therapy, targeting interleukin-10 (IL-10), osteopontin (OPN), and specific microRNAs (miR-106a, let-7c, and miR-146a] [2,3]. This comprehensive exploration has added a substantial layer of understanding to the field of MS therapeutics, elucidating the potential role of cobalamin as a viable adjuvant to established IFN-β therapy.…”