BTK regulates microglial function and neuroinflammation in human stem cell models and mouse models of multiple sclerosis

Neuroinflammation in the central nervous system (CNS), driven largely by resident phagocytes, has been proposed as a significant contributor to disability accumulation in multiple sclerosis (MS) but has not been addressed therapeutically. Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) is expressed in both B-lymphocytes and innate immune cells, including microglia, where its role is poorly understood. BTK inhibition may provide therapeutic benefit within the CNS by targeting adaptive and innate immunity-mediated disease progression in MS. Using a CNS-penetrant BTK inhibitor (BTKi), we demonstrate robust in vivo effects in mouse models of MS. We further identify a BTK-dependent transcriptional signature in vitro, using the BTKi tolebrutinib, in mouse microglia, human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived microglia, and a complex hiPSC-derived tri-culture system composed of neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, revealing modulation of neuroinflammatory pathways relevant to MS. Finally, we demonstrate that in MS tissue BTK is expressed in B-cells and microglia, with increased levels in lesions. Our data provide rationale for targeting BTK in the CNS to diminish neuroinflammation and disability accumulation.