Articles tagged with Multiple Sclerosis
Kessler Foundation marks 20 years of promoting inclusivity and accessibility through rehabilitation research and training. Researchers collaborate with global partners to develop innovative interventions for people with disabilities, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and brain injury.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified a key underlying process implicated in MS, offering new hope for therapies to treat the disease. The discovery reveals that a protein called fibrinogen sets off an immune response in the brain, leading to nerve cell damage and debilitating symptoms.
Dr. John DeLuca, Vice President for Research and Training at Kessler Foundation, is recognized for his pioneering work in cognitive rehabilitation and MS research. He aims to restore and maintain cognitive function through innovative methods and collaborations with international partners.
Researchers find that leakage of fibrinogen into the central nervous system activates immune cells called microglia, leading to nerve damage. Targeting the interaction between fibrinogen and microglia may be an effective alternative for treating multiple sclerosis.
A new study aims to determine driving fitness in individuals with multiple sclerosis using a simple and accurate testing protocol. The test, developed by GHSU researcher Dr. Abiodun Akinwuntan, has shown promise in predicting pass or fail outcomes on a road test with 91 percent accuracy.
Researchers discovered a molecule called sncRNA715 that suppresses myelin basic protein synthesis, crucial for myelin formation. This finding may help explain myelination failures in neurological illnesses like multiple sclerosis.
Researchers at UCSF discover an 'immune exchange' between the brain and blood that allows disease-causing B cells to move in and out of the brain, providing a potential key to unlocking better treatments and diagnostics. The study suggests that targeting specific B cells could lead to precision therapies tailored to each patient's needs.
Researchers identify new therapeutic approaches for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), find immune cells defective in Huntington's disease, and discover signaling pathways contributing to muscle weakness in myotonic dystrophy. Targeting C/EBPG and C/EBPA, or normalizing GSK3β activity may help treat these conditions.
A study found that pregnant women with higher levels of vitamin D in their blood had a 61% lower risk of developing multiple sclerosis, compared to those with low levels. However, the mother's vitamin D level did not affect her child's risk of developing MS.
Researchers have identified a key biochemical marker for cognitive impairment in MS brains and developed an experimental compound to manipulate it, improving learning and memory in mice. The finding has the potential to speed development of new drugs for treating cognitive impairment in MS patients and those with Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have developed a novel treatment that selectively inhibits the part of the immune system responsible for attacking myelin, reducing inflammation in autoimmune disorders like MS. The therapy uses microscopic particles to induce tolerance in animal models, showing potential for treating MS, type I diabetes, and food allergies.
A biodegradable nanoparticle has been shown to halt multiple sclerosis in mice by tricking the immune system into stopping its attack on myelin. This technology also shows promise for treating Type 1 diabetes and airway allergies such as asthma.
A new MRI model reveals why images are sensitive to nerve fiber direction and allows for detailed information about fiber size and direction. This discovery will help clinicians recognize lesions and tailor scans to patients with specific needs.
A monoclonal antibody called alemtuzumab shows promise in reducing MS disease activity, with nearly half as many relapses as a common current treatment. The drug also appears to improve disability outlook, particularly in refractory patients who have not responded to previous treatments.
Researchers at OHSU have discovered that blocking a specific enzyme can promote myelin-forming cell differentiation and remyelination in MS patients, potentially leading to improved nerve cell function. The discovery could be a 'life-changer' for millions with MS and other demyelinating diseases.
A new MS drug, alemtuzumab, has been shown to significantly reduce the number of attacks and disease activity in patients who have already failed to respond to other treatments. The study also found that alemtuzumab improved disability outcomes, with most patients experiencing an improvement in their condition.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have identified 475,806 genetic variants in the human genome that contribute to a 30% risk of developing Multiple Sclerosis. These variants, particularly those on chromosome 6, are linked to small DNA variations that have long been associated with MS susceptibility.
A five-minute eye scan can accurately assess brain damage in people with multiple sclerosis, predicting disease progression. The scan uses optical coherence tomography to measure retinal tissue health, providing valuable information for doctors and patients.
Researchers found that strokes among people under 55 increased from 13% to 19% over time, and the average age of people who experienced stroke fell from 71 years to 69 years. Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise can modify risk factors for stroke.
Abhijit Das, a postdoctoral fellow at Kessler Foundation, was named to the NIDRR-sponsored ARRT Young Investigators Panel for his research on cognitive fatigue in multiple sclerosis. His work aims to convert knowledge about brain networks underlying fatigue into treatment protocols using non-invasive brain stimulation.
Researchers have identified a new therapy that appears to stop inflammation in the eye nerves and spinal cord for patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO), a debilitating central nervous system disorder. The treatment, eculizumab, was given to patients with severe symptoms, resulting in 12 symptom-free periods and two mild attacks.
Researchers have identified a molecule that plays a crucial role in the development of experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE) in MS animal models. Blocking this molecule reduces inflammation and reverses clinical signs of the disease.
Researchers found that women with multiple sclerosis who undergo assisted reproduction technology are at risk for increased disease activity. Sex hormones and reproductive hormones contribute to the regulation of immune responses in autoimmune diseases like MS.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals a strong correlation between low vitamin D levels and increased brain lesions in people with multiple sclerosis. Higher vitamin D levels were associated with lower risk of new lesions and active disease spots.
A new study by researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital distinguishes multiple sclerosis patients into two meaningful subsets, MSa and MSb, based on distinct RNA molecules. This categorization may lead to more personalized treatments for individual patients.
Jelana Stojanovic, a Kessler Foundation postdoctoral fellow, received the Research Award for Best Poster at the 2012 MS Centers Meeting. Her study used fNIRS to evaluate working memory performance in people with and without multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Chiaravalloti discusses the potential of functional MRI and behavioral therapies to target cognitive deficits in MS patients. Research suggests that these approaches may be effective in improving learning, memory, and processing speed in individuals with MS.
A new study published in Neurology says Gingko biloba does not improve cognitive performance in people with multiple sclerosis. The research followed up on earlier findings that suggested there may be some benefit, but found no cognitive benefits to using the supplement.
A study by Dr. Jesus Lovera and colleagues found that Ginkgo biloba does not improve cognitive function in people with Multiple Sclerosis, contradicting earlier small studies. The researchers suggest that the supplement may be beneficial earlier in the disease process or for participants with more severe impairments.
A new MRI study reveals that vein abnormalities do not contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS) severity and are not specific to the disease. Despite previous speculation, the researchers found no correlation between cerebral blood flow and MS symptoms.
Researchers found that immune cells called dendritic cells protect against multiple sclerosis by reducing T cell responsiveness and increasing PD-1 receptor expression. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for the disease.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine discovered that A-beta, a molecule linked to Alzheimer's disease, reverses paralysis and inflammation in mouse models of multiple sclerosis. The findings suggest potential new treatments for the autoimmune disease.
A new study by NIH researchers reveals that lymphoid tissue inducer (LTi) cells contribute to multiple sclerosis, and daclizumab appears to reduce their numbers. The drug also activates natural killer cells, which counteract autoimmunity.
Dr. John DeLuca, VP of Research at Kessler Foundation, received the 2012 Roger G. Barker Distinguished Research Contribution Award from the American Psychological Association for his groundbreaking research on cognitive effects of brain injury and multiple sclerosis. The award recognizes his lifelong contributions to rehabilitation psy...
A study published in Journal of Neuroimmunology suggests that B cells, a type of immune cell, produce toxic substances that damage myelin and contribute to the progression of multiple sclerosis. Researchers hope to identify these substances to develop targeted therapies for MS treatment.
The report explores successful partnerships between employers and disability service organizations to hire workers with disabilities. Successful initiatives include Walgreens Distribution Centers, Lowe's Bridges to Business program, and Walmart's partnership with Project SEARCH.
A new study published in Radiology found that sodium accumulation in the brain correlates directly with disability in multiple sclerosis patients. The research used 3 Tesla sodium MRI to detect abnormal sodium concentrations in specific brain regions and throughout the whole brain.
A study found that interferon beta treatment did not slow disease progression in patients with relapsing-remitting MS. The researchers compared patients treated with interferon beta to those without treatment, but did not find a significant difference in disability progression.
A study of 2656 BC patients found no strong evidence that beta interferons prescribed for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis slowed long-term disability progression. Researchers emphasize the need for individualized treatment approaches and further studies on novel treatments.
Research by Jesus Lovera and colleagues found that stress management therapy prevented new brain lesions in people with multiple sclerosis, with 77% of patients remaining free of lesions. The benefit did not continue beyond treatment, highlighting the need for longer therapy or continued support.
Researchers have identified a new biomarker, KIR4.1 autoantibody, in nearly half of MS patients, indicating its potential as an autoimmune response target. The finding could improve diagnosis and differentiate MS from other neurological diseases.
A new study shows that stress management training can help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) prevent new disease activity. After participating in the training program, 77% of participants were free of new lesions compared to 55% in the control group.
Researchers are developing a new oral multiple sclerosis drug that targets the molecule miR-326, which stimulates the production of immune system mediators. The drug aims to inhibit miR-326 and block the production of Th17 cells, potentially offering a more convenient treatment option for patients.
A two-year clinical trial found fingolimod to significantly reduce Gd-enhancing lesions, new/enlarging T2 lesions, and brain atrophy in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis. Approximately half of the patients receiving fingolimod therapy were free from inflammatory lesions during the study.
A study published in Neurology found that botulinum toxin injections significantly improved tremor severity and writing/drawing abilities in people with multiple sclerosis. The treatment also showed promise in reducing muscle weakness after treatment.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have successfully used aptamers to stimulate regeneration and repair of nerve coatings in mice with multiple sclerosis. The finding suggests new possible therapies for MS patients, providing hope for a potential cure or treatment.
A new study published in Brain found that multiple sclerosis patients have a lower overall cancer risk, with significant reductions in colorectal cancer risk. While brain and bladder cancer risks were slightly elevated, MS patients with relapsing-onset disease had higher non-melanoma skin cancer risk.
A large non-commercial study found that cannabis' main active constituent, THC, does not slow the course of progressive multiple sclerosis. However, participants with lower disability levels showed some potential benefits from THC treatment.
A study of 313 healthy postmenopausal women found that long-term soy protein consumption had no significant effect on overall cognitive ability. However, visual memory and facial recognition were improved by 13% compared to a milk protein placebo.
A £425,000 study at Queen's University Belfast aims to discover how the immune system supports tissue repair in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The research seeks to understand how ageing affects this process and potentially lead to new treatments for MS.
A UC Irvine immunologist has received a $4.8 million grant to create new neural stem cells for treating multiple sclerosis. The cells aim to halt ongoing myelin loss and encourage the growth of new myelin to mend damaged nerves.
A substance in human mesenchymal stem cells promotes nerve restoration and myelin sheath repair in rodent models of multiple sclerosis. Hepatocyte growth factor, a key instigator, decreases inflammation and increases signaling molecules counteracting it, leading to neural cell growth and nerve rewinding.
A randomized controlled trial found smoked cannabis to be effective in reducing spasticity and pain in people with treatment-resistant multiple sclerosis. However, the study also showed that smoking cannabis was associated with acute cognitive impairments.
A clinical study at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine found that smoked cannabis reduced symptoms of multiple sclerosis, including improved spasticity and pain. However, the study also reported short-term adverse cognitive effects and increased fatigue.
A recent OHSU study found that multiple sclerosis specialists have seen over 600 patients misdiagnosed with MS, resulting in unnecessary treatment costing $11 million per year. The study highlights the importance of clinical expertise in recognizing and correcting diagnostic errors.
A study published in Brain Pathology has found that halting the Kallikrein 6 enzyme can slow multiple sclerosis progression in mice. The researchers discovered an antibody that neutralizes the enzyme, which was shown to reduce inflammatory white blood cells and slow demyelination.
Lauren Strober, a researcher at Kessler Foundation, has been awarded a five-year grant to study factors related to employment in people with multiple sclerosis. Her goal is to develop a predictive model of unemployment that can help practitioners make informed decisions and assist individuals with MS in retaining jobs.
Early treatment with interferon beta-1a significantly reduced the likelihood of progression to clinically definite multiple sclerosis (MS) in a three-year clinical trial. Those who received the drug soon after their first signs of possible MS were less likely to be diagnosed with MS than those who switched from placebo.
A new US-based clinical trial is testing whether high-dose vitamin D supplements can reduce multiple sclerosis (MS) disease activity when added to standard therapy. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of vitamin D in reducing relapse rates and improving quality of life among participants with relapsing-remitting MS.
A Phase II clinical trial found that an oral drug called ONO-4641 reduced the number of lesions in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The study showed significant decreases in Gd-enhancing brain lesions, with doses of 0.05mg, 0.10mg, and 0.15mg resulting in 82%, 92%, and 77% fewer lesions compared to placebo.