Researchers are making progress in finding a cure for multiple sclerosis (MS). Stem cell injections have shown promise in reducing inflammation and potentially repairing damage to myelin in the brains of mouse models of MS. A small trial testing this treatment in people with advanced-stage MS found it to be safe, with no worsening of symptoms or increase in disability. Meanwhile, researchers are also exploring the role of the gut microbiome in MS and investigating the potential of blocking a protein called AHR to decrease inflammation. Additionally, clinical trials for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) vaccines are underway, as there is strong evidence linking EBV to MS. These advancements bring hope for finding effective treatments and potentially preventing MS in the future.
This week's MS news includes a study examining the side effects of dalfampridine, a medication used to improve walking speed in MS patients; the Neural Sleeve, an AI-powered bionic clothing device designed to aid walking with MS, being named one of Time's best inventions; and a study linking low vitamin D levels to poorer cognition and greater disability in MS patients.
Research presented at the joint meeting of ECTRIMS and ACTRIMS suggests that a combination of faulty immune regulation, genetics, and specific strains of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may increase the risk of developing MS. Stopping disease-modifying therapy (DMT) can lead to new disease activity, as shown in a study that had to be ended early due to participants experiencing increased disease activity. Encouraging treatment reports include the potential of foralumab to ease brain inflammation in secondary progressive MS, fenebrutinib's ability to reduce new inflammatory lesions in relapsing MS, and ongoing efforts to find ways to curb MS progression.
A study reveals that many MS patients do not discuss bowel symptoms with their doctors, despite the impact on their quality of life; a blood test using artificial intelligence algorithms shows promise in predicting MS disease activity, but further validation is needed; a small study suggests that an anti-inflammatory diet combined with synbiotic supplements may improve symptoms in people with progressive MS.
Noninvasive brain stimulation, specifically repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), has shown promise in reducing spasticity in MS patients when combined with physical therapy. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for maintaining cognitive function in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). For pediatric-onset MS, aggressive treatment with high-efficacy therapies is recommended to achieve better disease control.
Research suggests that some individuals diagnosed with MS may actually have a disease resembling MS but different from it, as a specific biomarker has been found in a small percentage of MS patients. Additionally, a study indicates that cow milk proteins may trigger immune responses associated with MS, while plant-based milks do not. Furthermore, ongoing research is exploring the development of an EBV vaccine, as there is a link between EBV and MS. A potential vaccine targeting both active and latent forms of the virus has shown promising results in mice.
