BACKGROUND: During the relapse of multiple sclerosis (MS), activated T cells, T cells autoreactive against myelin antigens as well as antigen-nonspecific lymphocytes and monocytes produce a number of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor). For a proinflammatory effect to take place TNF must bind together with appropriate receptors. The aim of the study was to assess value of serum sTNFR-1 and sFas levels with reference to clinical activation of disease. MATERIAL/METHODS: Thirty-three patients with clinically documented diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS and 22 healthy subjects were included in the study. In 15 patients the measurements of sTNFR-l and sFas levels were performed at the beginning of MS relapse and in 18 subjects--they were taken in MS remission. 'I'he levels of both soluble molecules were determined with the use of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: Mean serum sTNFR-1 levels in patients with MS relapse did not differ significantly from mean sTNFR-1 level in patients with MS remission and a control group. Mean serum sFas level in patients with MS relapse was significantly higher comparing with the results obtained in patients with MS remission and in control group. CONCLUSIONS: The absence of changes in serum sTNFR-1 levels relative to clinical activation of the disease makes this measurement ineffective in the assessment of MS status. On the other hand, the measurement of serum sFas levels may be a valuable parameter for the monitoring of both MS clinical course and immune response to treatment when the symptoms of neurological deficit aggravate.

Keywords: Antigens, CD95 - blood, Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting - blood, Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor - blood