Dimethyl fumarate promotes B cell-mediated anti-inflammatory cytokine profile in B and T cells, and inhibits immune cell migration in patients with MS.

Dimethyl Fumarate (DMF), known for its mechanism of action targeting Nrf2 and related redox homeostasis, is an approved immunotherapy for patients with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) in the relapsing form. We assessed how DMF modulates immune cell functions, namely the cytokine profile of co-cultured B and T cells, and the chemokine-mediated migration of immune cells. Following DMF therapy, LTα, TNFα and IFNγ B cells were reduced while TGFβ and IL10 expression elevated.

Dimethyl fumarate as a first- vs second-line therapy in MS: Focus on B cells.

Objective: To elucidate the immunomodulatory effects of dimethyl fumarate (DMF) on B cells in patients with relapsing MS receiving DMF as a "1st-line" vs "2nd-line" therapy.

Methods: B cells were isolated from 43 patients with MS at baseline and after 15-week DMF therapy. Phenotype and functional markers and cytokine profile were assessed by flow cytometry.