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Yale-led team finds missing-in-action MS genes

A Yale-led team has identified four new genetic variants that directly damage gene sequences, accounting for an additional 5% of MS disease risk. The findings contradict previous theories on the role of common genetic variants in MS, providing promising new avenues for research and study.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateOct 18, 2018

New immunotherapy targeting blood-clotting protein

Scientists have developed an antibody that blocks the inflammatory and oxidative activity of fibrin, a blood protein that contributes to neurodegeneration in the brain. The treatment has shown promise in reducing inflammation and neurodegeneration in both mouse models of multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 15, 2018

Link between gut flora and multiple sclerosis discovered

New findings suggest that the immune system's response to a protein called GDP-L-fucose synthase, found in both human cells and bacteria, may play a key role in multiple sclerosis. The protein is believed to activate T cells in the intestine, leading to an inflammatory cascade that damages the protective coating around nerve cells.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 11, 2018

Study finds multiple sclerosis drug slows brain shrinkage

A clinical trial of over 250 participants with progressive multiple sclerosis found that ibudilast slowed down brain shrinkage compared to a placebo. The study showed a difference of approximately 2.5 milliliters of brain tissue between the two groups, but it is unclear if this translates to improved symptoms or function.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 29, 2018

Can fasting improve MS symptoms?

Researchers are testing whether drastically cutting calories twice a week can change MS symptoms. A study found that intermittent fasting reduced MS-like symptoms in mice, with changes in immune cells and gut microbiome.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 9, 2018

Chemical compound produces beneficial inflammation, remyelination that could help treat MS

A chemical compound called indazole chloride has been shown to produce beneficial inflammation and remyelination in multiple sclerosis patients. This process can help repair damaged axons and restore myelin, potentially reducing disability burden. The findings provide a promising new treatment avenue for the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 29, 2018

How the gut influences neurologic disease

A study published in Nature sheds light on the connection between the gut and brain, revealing a new pathway that may help guide therapies for multiple sclerosis and other neurologic diseases. Researchers found that compounds produced by gut microbes can limit inflammation in the brain through their influence on microglia.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 2018

Spinal fluid could be used to predict the progression of multiple sclerosis, study finds

A six-year study by the University of Birmingham has found that analyzing spinal fluid from patients with MS at diagnosis can predict future disease progression. The research identified a distinct immune response, characterized by an unusual antibody ratio, which may indicate early trigger and risk of disability.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·DateMay 9, 2018

Our vulnerable nervous system: What affects its protective sheaths?

A team of scientists at FAU has discovered how protein molecules regulate the formation of myelin sheaths in the nervous system. The study found that Nfat proteins are essential for successful interaction between other protein molecules, and their inhibition can lead to myelin loss and neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 8, 2018