Myelin basic protein (MPB) (87-99) is an encephalitogenic peptide. Active immunization with MBP (87-99) induces experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in SJL/J mice and Lewis rats. It induces T cell and microglial activation and MHC class II expression in the spinal cord and decreases latency to paw withdrawal in response to mechanical and thermal stimuli in rats without inducing paralysis. Intranasal administration of MBP (87-99), alone or in combination with MBP (68-86), prior to immunization with guinea pig MBP (gp-MBP) confers protection against EAE induction in Lewis rats.