Articles tagged with Multiple Sclerosis
A large-scale study found a significant association between autoimmune diseases and increased risk of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's. People admitted to hospital for autoimmune diseases were 20% more likely to be readmitted for dementia compared to those with other conditions.
A new study published in Neuromodulation found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with computer games significantly improved cognitive measures in patients with multiple sclerosis. The treatment showed greater gains in complex attention and response times compared to those who played computer games alone.
A UC Riverside study found that chronic demyelination is closely linked to seizures in MS patients, with specific neurons being lost and hyperactivity increasing. The researchers hope to develop drugs aimed at reducing seizures, which could also benefit epilepsy patients.
A type of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) has been shown to slow or stop MS disease progression for up to five years in nearly half of patients, with significant benefits seen in younger patients and those with relapsing-remitting MS. However, the treatment carries a small risk of death and is not suitable fo...
A study of 281 patients with aggressive MS who underwent autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation found a 46% five-year progression-free survival rate. Younger age, relapsing form of MS, and fewer prior immunotherapies were associated with better outcomes.
A new therapeutic agent, ST266, has been shown to prevent loss of cells in the optic nerve and reduce inflammation in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. Early treatment with ST266 improved visual function and prevented damage to the optic nerve.
A research team at Brigham and Women's Hospital has revealed how FTY720 suppresses chronic inflammation in the central nervous system to reduce pathogenic activities of astrocytes. The findings suggest this treatment may hold promise for progressive and difficult-to-treat forms of multiple sclerosis.
High-dose immunosuppressive therapy followed by stem cell transplantation has been shown to induce sustained remission in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Five years after treatment, 69% of participants had survived without progression or relapse, with some showing improvements in mobility and physical capabilities.
A new study found that serum microRNAs are associated with MRI measures of multiple sclerosis severity, suggesting they could serve as biomarkers. The research identified distinct microRNA sets linked to lesions and atrophy, which may help identify underlying disease processes and guide therapeutic decisions.
A team led by Prof Dr Aiden Haghikia and Prof Dr Ralf Gold report two patients who developed severe symptoms under alemtuzumab, a common MS treatment. The researchers successfully treated the side effects with a new algorithm that could benefit other patients worldwide.
Ocrelizumab has been shown to significantly reduce new attacks in patients with relapsing MS, slow symptom progression in primary progressive MS, and decrease brain lesions. The drug also demonstrated lower rates of disability progression and fewer infusion-related reactions compared to placebo.
A study of 6.6 million people found that those living within 50 meters of a major road had a small increased risk of developing dementia, with up to 7-11% cases potentially attributed to traffic exposure. The study also found no link between traffic exposure and Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
A study of over 6.5 million Ontario residents found that those living within 50 meters of high-traffic roads had a seven percent higher likelihood of developing dementia compared to those further away. The risk increased with proximity, but not for Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
Researchers have made significant strides in treating primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) with ocrelizumab, a medication that targets immune cells contributing to the disease. The study, led by UTHealth's Jerry Wolinsky, shows substantial improvement in slowing disability progression and reducing new lesion formation.
Assistant Professor Leah Shriver aims to find new ways to promote nervous system regeneration and prevent destruction of brain cells in multiple sclerosis patients. She plans to study the cuprizone intoxication model to understand mechanisms contributing to oligodendrocyte and myelin loss.
Professor Ari Waisman receives prestigious Sobek Prize for groundbreaking multiple sclerosis research, enabling deeper insight into inflammatory cell role and regulation in the brain.
Research finds that high levels of free haemoglobin in the blood are associated with increased brain shrinkage in patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. The study suggests that treatments targeting haemoglobin levels, rather than iron, may be a more effective approach to slowing disease progression.
Researchers have shown that macrocyclic MRI contrast agents may reduce the risk of gadolinium brain deposition, a concern for patients with multiple sclerosis. Macrocyclic agents were found to minimize deposits in the cerebellum, whereas linear agents posed a higher risk.
A recent study found that newborns with low vitamin D levels were more likely to develop multiple sclerosis (MS) later in life. The study analyzed data from over 500 Danish children born between 1981 and 2012, comparing their vitamin D levels to those of similar children without MS.
Researchers discovered a new signal path in the RAS that influences immune cells, specifically phagocytes, which play a key role in MS development. The Mas receptor's influence on macrophages could provide an anti-inflammatory treatment option for chronic inflammatory diseases.
A UTSA professor has developed an underwater virtual reality game that helps relieve symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The 'Shark Punch' game uses smart phones and dive masks to create a immersive experience, while also providing a form of aquatic therapy.
Researchers have found significant differences in men and women's brain function, with some genetic variants influencing susceptibility to multiple sclerosis. The study suggests a personalized strategy for prevention and treatment, taking into account gender-specific contributions.
Researchers from Duke University have identified two specific receptors, CXCR2 and LTBR, that play a key role in the development of drug-resistant multiple sclerosis. The study found that targeting these receptors may lead to successful treatment for patients who do not respond to interferon-beta treatment.
A large international study found that living in northerly climes is linked to an earlier age of starting MS symptoms. The study analyzed data from over 22,000 patients and found that each 10° increase in latitude was associated with a 10-month earlier onset.
Researchers have identified 200 genetic loci linked to multiple sclerosis, a disease where the immune system attacks the brain and spine. The study, which analyzed over 110,000 samples, highlights the complex interplay of different immune cells in MS susceptibility.
Researchers found that alemtuzumab improved disability scores by at least one point in nearly 28% of participants, compared to 15% of those receiving interferon. The treatment also showed significant improvements in thinking skills and mobility without tremor or clumsy movements.
Researchers discovered a molecule, VGF nerve growth factor, triggered by running can help repair damaged nerve insulation in the brain. This finding could pave the way for new treatments for multiple sclerosis and other neurodegenerative disorders.
University of Groningen scientists discovered that tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2) is essential for preventing neuronal death in neurodegenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's. A specific TNFR2 agonist may prevent cell death, offering a new treatment direction.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered that structural instabilities in the myelin sheaths of neurons may enable the immune system to launch an uncontrolled attack on them, leading to multiple sclerosis. The study suggests a potential trigger for the disease's outbreak and offers new avenues for therapies and diagnostics.
A study by researchers at four US medical centers found that common conditions are frequently misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis, leading patients to receive unnecessary treatment. The study identified five primary diagnoses that mimic MS symptoms, resulting in long-term misdiagnosis for some patients.
A recent study at Mayo Clinic and other academic medical centers identified common conditions mistaken for multiple sclerosis, revealing potential risks of misdiagnosis. The research highlights the need for better clinician education on using diagnostic criteria to avoid premature or incorrect MS diagnoses.
A clinical trial at the University of Iowa will compare the effects of two popular diets on multiple sclerosis-related fatigue. The 36-week trial will recruit 100 people with relapsing-remitting MS and follow their health for 24 weeks, monitoring their health and activities.
Researchers have developed a cost-effective method using the Microsoft Kinect to evaluate gait abnormalities in multiple sclerosis patients. The device detects movement and computer algorithms quantify walking patterns, reducing human error. The technology shows promise for diagnosing gait pathology and tracking treatment effects.
A long-term study found that starting medication for multiple sclerosis at the earliest sign of the disease can prolong the time before a definitive diagnosis is made. Participants who received early treatment had 33% fewer diagnoses of MS, more time between relapses, and lower yearly relapse rates compared to those on delayed treatment.
Researchers developed an antibody that prevents the immune system from attacking the myelin sheath, reducing demyelination and axon degeneration. In experimental mouse models, treatment with the antibody blocked progression of motor disorders and reduced lymphocyte infiltration into the nervous tissue.
The National Stem Cell Foundation has funded a grant to study how astrocytes can be manipulated to halt or prevent neurodegeneration in diseases like MS and Parkinson's. The researchers aim to advance understanding of cell cross-talk in the central nervous system.
Researchers have found fecal transplants to be effective in treating certain infections and diseases, including C. difficile colitis with a 95% cure rate. The transplantation of stool from healthy individuals also shows promise in treating multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found altered gut microorganisms in patients with multiple sclerosis, including those treated with therapy. These changes correlated with immune system gene activity and breath methane levels. The study supports the connection between gut microbiome and immunological disorders like MS.
A new study in Biological Psychiatry reveals that inflammation of the hippocampus contributes to depressive symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients. Hippocampal immune activation was linked to more severe symptoms of depression and altered functional connections with other brain regions.
Researchers at Aarhus University discovered how simvastatin reduces inflammation in chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. The study found that simvastatin acts as a 'plug' in proteins retaining immune cells, reducing inflammation and improving symptoms.
A comprehensive review article examines the role of gut bacteria and viruses in MS development and progression. Alterations in gut microbiome composition may influence immune system activity and autoimmune disorders like MS.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that obesity in early adulthood is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis. The research, led by Dr. Brent Richards, used Mendelian randomization to investigate the link between genetically determined obesity and MS risk. The study found that an averag...
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found a distinct gut microbiome in multiple sclerosis patients compared to healthy individuals. The research suggests that patients with MS have reduced levels of beneficial bacteria, which are associated with overall health benefits.
Scientists identified four new risk genes linked to epigenetic mechanisms in MS, which affect gene regulation within immune cells. These findings suggest that environmental influences play a significant role in the development of MS, with epigenetic signals marking DNA sequences and regulating gene activation.
A recent review by University of Alberta researchers found little evidence to support the benefits of vitamin D supplementation for various health conditions. Strongest effects were seen in reducing falls and fractures among the elderly. Moderate supplementation is unlikely to cause harm but will not lead to significant health benefits.
Researchers found that cerebral microbleeds are associated with increased physical and cognitive disability in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The study suggests that monitoring MS patients with cerebral microbleeds could be crucial in preventing further decline.
Researchers found that genetic variants of the S1P1 receptor influence fingolimod's effectiveness in treating multiple sclerosis. The study used mouse models to demonstrate that an S1PR1 variant affecting phosphorylation ability led to reduced fingolimod efficacy, and treatment with a CCR6-blocking antibody delayed disease progression.
A University of Michigan study found an association between obstructive sleep apnea and cognitive dysfunction in MS patients. Treating OSA with CPAP therapy may help improve cognitive function in these patients.
Researchers developed PET tracers that can visualize inflammatory disease and evaluate next-generation MS therapies. The study found that the compounds could detect an increase in S1P1 expression in animals with an inflammatory response, suggesting a promising approach for imaging MS and other inflammatory diseases.
A new treatment uses chemotherapy followed by autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation to fully halt clinical relapses and development of new brain lesions in patients with multiple sclerosis. Eight patients showed a sustained improvement in disability 7.5 years after treatment.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet identified 12 subclasses of oligodendrocytes and a novel cell distinct from oligodendrocytes residing in blood vessels, uncovering unexpected diversity within the nerve-insulating cells.
A clinical trial shows that an intensive procedure replacing the diseased immune system with a new one using blood stem cells can eliminate all signs of brain inflammation in people with early, aggressive multiple sclerosis. The treatment resulted in zero clinical relapses and no new active inflammatory lesions over 4-13 year follow-up.
Lawrence Steinman, MD, receives the fifth Anthony Cerami Award in Translational Medicine for his pioneering work on multiple sclerosis. His monograph explores translational research and teamwork in achieving medical breakthroughs.
Researchers have identified a gene mutation that can directly cause the development of multiple sclerosis, a neurodegenerative disease affecting 2 million worldwide. The mutation in NR1H3 gene leads to loss of function of its protein product LXRA, controlling lipid homeostasis and inflammation.
Scientists have discovered a single genetic mutation that causes multiple sclerosis in two-thirds of those affected, providing a potential target for therapies. The mutation leads to a defective protein that disrupts communication between the brain and body, resulting in vision problems, muscle weakness, and cognitive impairments.
A new gene, ANKRD55, has been discovered to play a significant role in the neuro-inflammation process of Multiple Sclerosis. The study found that genetic variants associated with MS increase the production of ANKRD55 transcripts in immune cells, suggesting a key gene involved in deregulation.
A new study suggests that a fasting-like diet can reduce symptoms of multiple sclerosis by triggering a death-and-life process for cells, which appears critical for the body's repair. The diet promotes regeneration of myelin, the sheath of proteins and fats that insulate nerve fibers, and improves immune function.
Research suggests that people who take foreign breaks have higher levels of vitamin D in their blood, which has been linked to wide-ranging health benefits. Farmers also have higher levels of vitamin D, particularly those over 60 years old.
A recent study reveals differences in gut bacteria between children with and without multiple sclerosis. Key findings include an association between MS and increased inflammatory bacteria, as well as decreased anti-inflammatory bacteria. The discovery may pave the way for new therapeutic approaches by identifying novel drug targets.
A new study links MS drug mitoxantrone to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, with patients treated with the medication being three times more likely to develop the disease. However, the overall rate of cancer was low enough that the researchers suggest continuing its use for severely affected patients.