Articles tagged with Multiple Sclerosis
A new platform allows researchers to study cell-cell interactions in inflammatory neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). By identifying genes that control biologic processes, the team hopes to develop therapeutics to change disease-promoting cell behavior.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital tested a new nasal monoclonal antibody treatment, Foralumab, which decreased inflammatory markers and lung inflammation in patients with COVID-19. The treatment also showed similar effects in multiple sclerosis patients, suggesting its potential use for treating other diseases.
A preliminary study found that people with multiple sclerosis who follow a Mediterranean diet have a lower risk for problems with memory and thinking skills. The study involved 563 participants and found that those who more closely followed the diet had a 20% lower risk for cognitive impairment.
A study led by the University at Buffalo found that cortical, deep gray matter, and spinal cord damage are key factors in severe MS disability, rather than lesions. Patients with severe disabilities showed more pronounced loss of neurons and atrophy of the medulla oblongata compared to their less-disabled counterparts.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified a vital contributor to hyperactive immune responses and neuroinflammation in multiple sclerosis. Blocking this regulator alleviated harmful inflammation in lab mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for new treatments.
A study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry found that a fish oil derivative called DHEA can reduce inflammation and disease severity in mice with multiple sclerosis. By supplementing the diet of mice with DHEA, researchers noticed a decrease in MS-like disease symptoms and an improvement in the immune system's response.
A new biomarker, GFAP, has been identified that can predict both current and future progression of multiple sclerosis. Elevated blood levels of GFAP indicate chronic disease processes involving astrocytes, which contribute to gradual progressive disability.
Researchers at Kessler Foundation are conducting a double-blind randomized clinical trial to evaluate the impact of their strategy-based cognitive training program on new learning and memory in individuals with multiple sclerosis. The study aims to assess the efficacy of this protocol, which is based on the KF-STEM protocol.
A University of Alberta researcher has found that fractalkine triggers the repair of brain damage caused by multiple sclerosis, leading to increased production of vital brain cells. This discovery could potentially halt or reverse MS symptoms by replacing damaged cells with new ones.
Dr. Ruth Ann Marrie has made significant contributions to multiple sclerosis research, including the discovery of comorbidities' impact on MS evolution and development of personalized medicine strategies. Her work aims to improve quality of life by stopping and preventing MS through early intervention and targeted treatments.
Insufficient sleep during teenage years is linked to a higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). Short sleep duration and poor sleep quality are associated with a 40% and 50% increased risk, respectively. The study suggests that sufficient restorative sleep may be an important preventive factor against MS.
Researchers at Aarhus University are developing a novel treatment for multiple sclerosis by spinning artificial nerve fibers using electro-spun fibres. The goal is to restore nerve impulses quickly, as the myelin sheath deteriorates with age.
A recent study published in Genome Medicine found that intestinal bacteria play a crucial role in multiple sclerosis. The research revealed two types of health-promoting bacteria that can reduce an over-reactive immune system and may help alleviate symptoms.
A team from Brigham and Women's Hospital developed FIND-seq, a method that isolates and analyzes rare astrocytes driving MS inflammation and neurodegeneration. This approach identified signaling pathways controlling the development of pathogenic astrocytes in mice and humans.
A retrospective study found that hematopoietic stem cell transplants delayed disability progression and improved symptoms in people with active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. The study suggests that these transplants may be more effective than some MS medications, but further research is needed to confirm the findings.
Researchers at Rutgers University found a link between poor gut health and multiple sclerosis, suggesting that dietary adjustments like increased fiber may slow disease progression. The study also identified fecal Lcn-2 levels as a sensitive marker for detecting unhealthy changes in the gut microbiome of MS patients.
Research confirms a strong link between four genetic mutations and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but often fatal brain infection. Patients with these variants are at an increased risk of developing PML, highlighting the potential for genetic screening to reduce disease risk.
A recent study led by Stefan Seidel found that light therapy significantly improves fatigue symptoms in Multiple Sclerosis patients, with measurable improvements observed after just 14 days of use. The study used objective measurements to rule out sleep disorders, which are common comorbidities with fatigue in MS patients.
Researchers have identified three new genes, SHMT1, FAM120B, and ICA1L, and their expressed proteins that may be involved in the development of multiple sclerosis. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying the disease and prioritizes promising targets for future therapy research.
Researchers have developed a CAR-T therapy approach that effectively targets and eliminates rogue immune cells responsible for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis. The treatment shows promise as a potential cure for debilitating conditions.
Researchers found that dimethyl fumarate treatment increased the proportion of beneficial gut bacteria and reduced pro-inflammatory types, which are associated with MS. The study suggests a potential connection between gut flora and clinical side effects, paving the way for personalized treatment approaches.
A recent study published in Nature Computational Science reveals that specific regions of the brain process both individual and combined words, while others focus solely on individual words. The research could contribute to the development of wearable neurotechnology devices that can decode language directly from brain activity.
A University of Arizona Health Sciences study found that people over 45 with Type 2 diabetes treated with anti-hyperglycemic medications had a higher risk of multiple sclerosis, especially among women. In contrast, anti-hyperglycemic exposure in those under 45 reduced the risk.
Researchers used native top-down mass spectroscopy to study the interplay between glycans and oligomerization in various therapeutic hormones and cytokines. They found that glycans significantly stabilize some proteins, such as tumor necrosis factor-α, while others, like interferon-β, are independent of glycosylation status.
Researchers developed guidelines to communicate brain atrophy to MS patients, minimizing misunderstanding and apprehension. The new model ensures patients receive vital information about their disease progression, improving quality of life.
Researchers identified Spns2, an S1P transporter, as a novel drug target for Multiple Sclerosis treatment. Targeting this protein may improve safety profiles and reduce side effects associated with current therapies.
Researchers from the University of Zurich have discovered why a stem cell transplant is effective in treating multiple sclerosis. The study found that memory T cells reappear immediately after the transplant and do not trigger an autoimmune reaction due to pre-damage caused by chemotherapy. This knowledge enables the body to gradually ...
Research published in Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that obesity at MS diagnosis is associated with higher current and subsequent levels of disability. Reverting to a healthy weight may improve clinical outcomes for obese patients with MS, suggesting a modifiable risk factor.
Researchers at UCLA have identified an animal model that shares similarities with progressive multiple sclerosis, enabling studies of disability-improving treatments. The model reveals neurodegeneration features and effects on various parts of the brain and spinal cord, holding promise for future treatment discovery.
A VUB study has mapped the immune system's response to brain infections, revealing that resident macrophages play a key role in defending against pathogens. The researchers found that blood-derived immune cells can eliminate parasites, but may retain 'memory' of past infections, altering their ability to respond to future insults.
A team of researchers used digital cameras and machine learning algorithms to develop a system that can predict gait dysfunctions in people with multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. The study revealed that several algorithms were over 75% accurate at detecting differences between those with the conditions and those without.
Robotic exoskeletons have been shown to provide intensive high-quality rehabilitation and potentially improve functional outcomes in individuals with MS. However, experts agree that wide acceptance depends on further clinical studies aimed at determining optimal selection criteria and long-term outcomes.
A machine learning model developed by Carnegie Mellon University can accurately predict how stay-at-home orders affect people with multiple sclerosis. The model uses passively gathered smartphone and fitness tracker data to identify factors that signal changes in health.
A Kessler Foundation study found a relationship between rate of cognitive fatigue in MS and microstructural brain changes, particularly in white matter tracts and basal ganglia. The study's findings hold promise for advancing clinical interventions for disabling fatigue.
A new study led by Erika Pearce at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that the shape and function of mitochondria in Th17 cells play a crucial role in controlling their autoimmune activity. The researchers identified several molecules, including LKB1, that can influence this process, paving the way for potential therapeutic modifications.
A diet rich in guar gum fibre has been shown to limit inflammation and delay the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms in mice. The study found that only guar gum significantly reduced MS-like symptoms, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach for humans.
Researchers replaced zebrafish GPR17 receptor gene with human version to study myelin repair in multiple sclerosis. Testing substances in modified fish larvae may lead to quicker and more successful human trials.
Research findings suggest that aerobic fitness, cognitive processing speed, and walking endurance are strongly associated in individuals with thalamic atrophy. Aerobic exercise training may be beneficial in restoring function for those with this biomarker of neurodegeneration.
A large-scale international study has identified dozens of gut bacteria associated with multiple sclerosis, revealing potential new mechanisms for disease development and treatment response. The study also found geographical location and participant's disease status as significant factors influencing gut microbiome variations.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society awards Kessler Foundation a five-year grant to continue the long-running MS Fellowship in Neuropsychological Rehabilitation program. The grant provides funding for postdoctoral fellows to work on rehabilitation research projects.
A new analysis shows that health care spending may explain the link between multiple sclerosis (MS) and latitude, with higher MS rates found in wealthier countries. The study, published in Neurology, adjusted data for other factors to find a strong association between health expenditure per capita and MS prevalence.
A new study reveals that a multiple sclerosis treatment, interferon beta, reduces the binding of key molecules to red blood cells, thereby decreasing inflammation and slowing disease progression. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for the treatment of this debilitating autoimmune disease.
A MedUni Vienna study has identified retinal layer thinning as a reliable prognostic marker for multiple sclerosis severity. The analysis revealed that thinner retinas are associated with increased risk of permanent disability and more aggressive treatment is recommended.
A new study found that people with multiple sclerosis may experience varying levels of physical and mental quality of life depending on factors such as age at diagnosis, income, and disability level. Researchers identified specific subgroups with distinct profiles, highlighting the need for early interventions to improve outcomes.
Researchers at Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf discovered that corticosteroid Medrysone promotes oligodendroglial cell replacement and myelin sheath restoration. Astrocytes play a surprising role in mediating this effect, with some promoting tissue repair and others contributing to lesion formation.
The National MS Society has launched 40 new research awards to explore myelin repair, clues to MS progression, and wellness strategies to move closer to a world free of MS. The $19 million investment is part of a projected total of nearly $30 million in 2022 to support over 250 new research studies.
A team of experts encourages further investigation into the benefits of exercise training for managing multiple sclerosis. They argue that available studies are poorly designed and lack measurable neurological damage, suggesting that rigorous trials could provide evidence for neuroprotection.
A phase 3 clinical trial found that patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis treated with rituximab had a five-fold lower risk of relapse compared to those receiving standard dimethyl fumarate treatment. Rituximab also showed fewer new MS plaques on magnetic resonance imaging.
A study from the University of Kansas found that social support was crucial in predicting good sleep quality among individuals with multiple sclerosis. The research, conducted during the pandemic, revealed that tangible and positive social interaction support significantly predicted better sleep quality.
Researchers from Kessler Foundation found that virtual reality (VR) technology can strengthen the effects of traditional cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training in individuals with MS. By increasing sensory input and promoting multisensory integration, VR may increase the effectiveness of these therapies.
A comprehensive online survey of people with multiple sclerosis found that improving social integration and reducing social isolation can promote and maintain health and wellbeing. The study suggests that these social factors significantly predict health and wellbeing, even when accounting for demographic factors.
Researchers found that tenascin C and tenascin R impede the regeneration of myelin sheaths in mice with multiple sclerosis. Mice lacking these proteins rebuilt their myelin sheaths faster and more effectively.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have successfully repurposed a cancer drug to target neuroinflammatory diseases like multiple sclerosis. A novel drug carrier was developed to deliver the treatment specifically to microglia, reducing inflammation and disease progression.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have comprehensively mapped molecular activity in the brain and spinal cord that regulates body's response to central nervous system (CNS) disorders. They discovered a critical role of astrocytes, specialized support cells, in regulating outcomes for CNS disorders.
Kessler Foundation researchers use signal detection theory to characterize cognitive fatigue in multiple sclerosis. The study reveals an association between subjective 'state' fatigue, response bias, and brain activation patterns in both MS and control groups. This finding supports the use of signal detection metrics as an objective me...
Researchers develop targeted delivery system to boost regulatory T cells, which manage inflammation and reduce brain damage. The treatment increases IL2 levels, allowing regulatory T cells to survive and reducing cognitive impairment.
Researchers have developed a new tool to visualize leukocytes in the brain vasculature during in vivo two-photon laser scanning microscopy. The tool uses a fluorescent antibody targeting CD45, a ubiquitously expressed protein on white blood cells, allowing for tracking of circulating leukocytes over time and space.
A recent study found that aquatic exercise is preferred by individuals with multiple sclerosis and can provide significant benefits for those with the condition. However, lack of access to pools and high costs are major barriers to participation.
Researchers found that MS patients treated with Rituximab who have higher B cell counts of 40/µL or more develop protective levels of antibodies after vaccination. This suggests that measuring B cell level before vaccination is crucial for increasing the chance of a positive response.
Researchers found glatiramer acetate to be compatible with breastfeeding, reducing the frequency of relapses in multiple sclerosis patients. The study's results indicate no negative effects on infant development, leading to updates in the drug's label and approval for treatment during the breastfeeding period.