JNENS

Dear Editor

It is clinically well known that patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) typically are in a good mood. This is in spite of the seriousness of the disease and its progressive symptoms. MS is characterized by local inflammation and areas of damage in the brain. When this occurs, sphingolipids, and especially sulfatide, are released and become elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid [1]. Sulfatide is an interesting molecule composed of two fatty acid chains, one of variable length, which in the brain is typically between C16 and C24 [2]. Furthermore, it contains the amino acid serine, a galactose sugar group, and a sulfate group [2]. Sphingolipids, including sulfatide, have been shown to be involved in emotional regulation, cognitive performance, and social behavior [3]. One possible molecular mechanism may be their involvement in dopamine transporter activity [4]. Thus, we suggest that the emotional well-being often observed in patients with MS is associated with increased levels of sphingolipids, particularly sulfatide. The authors declare that no conflict of interest exists and received no specific funding for this work. Letter to the Editor of Journal of Neurology and Experimental Neural Science