Myelin basic protein (MBP) is a 18.5-kDa single-chain flexible polypeptide existing as an extrinsic and loosely bound component of the cytoplasmic portion of the myelin membrane sandwich. Ultra-structural immunocytochemistry studies has shown that MBP is localized in the compact myelin sheath. MBP is a marker for oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells as well as malignant schwannomas and in the etiology of multiple sclerosis. Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) (68-82) induces experimental allergic encephalomyelitis. |