Recent advance in role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in the central nervous system

Abstract

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. Pathological increase of MIF is sufficient to promote inflammation, aggravate metabolic dysfunction, and increase oxidative stress. MIF inhibition, through either gene knockout or pharmacological inhibitors, is clinically beneficial for treatment. Ironically, both detrimental and beneficial effects of MIF have been reported in ischemic stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, and spinal cord injury; thus, the roles of MIF appear to be bidirectional in the central nervous system. In the current review, we focus on the roles of MIF in the central nervous system, as well as its regulating mechanisms. Key words: Macrophage migration inhibitory factor; Central nervous system; Ischemic stroke; Spinal cord injury