T cell-mediated neuroprotection involves antithrombin activity

Functional loss after injury to the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) has been attributed not only to the immediate loss of neurons but also to secondary neuronal degeneration caused by the toxicity of physiological compounds present in abnormally high amounts as a result of the injury. One such compound appears to be the protease thrombin. Here we show that the beneficial effect of T cells directed against myelin self-antigens can be...