Yale researchers made an unexpected discovery—turncoat T cells that help a tumor evade other cancer-fighting immune T cells—in a study of patients living with advanced melanoma that was published Nov. 28 in Nature Immunology.
Tag: Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
National Multiple Sclerosis Society awards $1M to Case Western Reserve University researchers to study new approach to treat the disease
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating disease of the brain and spinal cord that impacts millions worldwide. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath—a protective layer surrounding nerve cells in the nervous system. The loss of myelin, combined with ongoing inflammation, causes dysfunction and death of nerve cells, making the disability worse, such as difficulties with movement, coordination, and sensation. Treatments now focus on reducing attacks on myelin, but don’t address nerve-cell damage and death. But with $1 million from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), a research team co-led by Paul Tesar, the Dr. Donald and Ruth Weber Goodman Professor of Innovative Therapeutics and director of the Institute for Glial Sciences, and Ben Clayton, assistant professor and founding member of the Institute for Glial Sciences, both in the Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, will take a different
For multiple sclerosis, medication and cognitive behavioral therapy can reduce fatigue
In a study of commonly used treatments for multiple sclerosis, both medical and behavioral interventions, and a combination of the two, resulted in significant improvements in fatigue. Researchers say the findings could shape treatment approaches to one of the most challenging symptoms experienced by people with multiple sclerosis.
Americas Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ACTRIMS) Outlines Guidance for Diagnosing Pediatric and Late-Onset Multiple Sclerosis
A new review led by the Americas Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ACTRIMS) provides guidance on how to diagnose suspected multiple sclerosis (MS) in individuals under 18 and adults 50 years and older.
Multiple sclerosis appears to protect against Alzheimer’s disease
A collaborative investigation among WashU Medicine experts in Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis (MS) finds evidence that MS patients are less likely to have amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, than adults without MS.
Good News for People with MS—COVID-19 Vaccine Not Tied to Relapse
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) have an increased risk of severe coronavirus infection, but there has been concern regarding potential relapse after vaccination. A new study finds that people with MS may not have a higher risk of relapse after COVID-19 vaccination. The study is published in the August 14, 2024, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Making Connections will be the focus at the ACTRIMS Forum 2025
The Americas Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ACTRIMS) is excited to announce its tenth annual Forum, taking place from February 27 to March 1, 2025, at the Palm Beach County Convention Center and the Hilton West Palm Beach in Florida.
Accelerated Cure Project Welcomes New Chief Scientific Officer
Accelerated Cure Project (ACP) for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) announced today that it has named Stephanie Buxhoeveden, Ph.D., M.S.N., FNP-BC, MCSN, as its Chief Scientific Officer (CSO). She will be taking over the position from Robert McBurney, Ph.D., former CEO and Chief Research Officer, who will be retiring after 13 years.
Detroit study shows Backward walking speed reserve assessment offers improved clinical screening for risks and decline in MS patients
A recently published study on mobility assessments led by Wayne State University show that a methodology called backward walking speed reserve may improve clinical screening for mobility impairments, fall risk and cognitive decline in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
For Immigrants to Canada, Risk of MS Increases with Proportion of Life Spent There
Immigrants to Canada who have spent a greater proportion of their lives in Canada have a greater risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) than people who have spent a smaller proportion of their lives there, according to a study published in the April 24, 2024, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study does not prove that an increased proportion of life in Canada causes MS; it only shows an association.
Signs of Multiple Sclerosis Show Up in Blood Years Before Symptoms
In a discovery that could hasten treatment for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), UC San Francisco scientists have discovered a harbinger in the blood of some people who later went on to develop the disease.
Study: Inverse Association Found Between Weight Loss Drugs and Multiple Sclerosis, Offering Possible New Avenue To Explore In The Treatment of MS
First, diabetes drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy showed promise in weight loss and have been marketed and widely used for weight loss. Now these medications are showing promise as a possible treatment for multiple sclerosis. A study, “Exploring the association…
UCLA Health neurologist receives award for innovative multiple sclerosis research
Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, a professor of neurology at UCLA Health, has been awarded the 2024 John Dystel Prize for Multiple Sclerosis Research in recognition of her outstanding contributions to multiple sclerosis research and treatment.
Good News—MS Drugs Taken While Breastfeeding May Not Affect Child Development
Certain medications for multiple sclerosis (MS) called monoclonal antibodies, taken while breastfeeding, may not affect the development of a child during the first three years of life, according to a preliminary study released today, March 4, 2024. The study will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 76th Annual Meeting taking place April 13–18, 2024, in person in Denver and online. The study examined four monoclonal antibodies for MS: natalizumab, ocrelizumab, rituximab and ofatumumab.
Biochemists discover what affects the development of autoimmune diseases
The biochemist of RUDN University and Institute of Biomedical Chemistry was the first to study how variants of the protein that controls T-lymphocytes affect the development of autoimmune diseases using the example of multiple sclerosis. This will help find new approaches to the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Using Ion Beams to Improve Brain Microscopy
Improving the way scientists can see the microscopic structures of the brain can improve our understanding of a host of brain diseases, like Alzheimer’s or multiple sclerosis. Studying these diseases is challenging and has been limited by accuracy of available models.To see the smallest parts of cells, scientists often use a technique called electron microscopy.
Life stressors may contribute to multiple sclerosis flares, disability
Stressors across the lifespan — including poverty, abuse and divorce — are associated with worsening health and functional outcomes for people with multiple sclerosis, a new study finds. Researchers say the findings can inform MS research as well as clinical care, including referrals to mental health or substance use support.
How Are Epstein-Barr Virus and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Connected?
The linking of MS and EBV could be a significant step in gaining the upper hand in the prevention of MS, which affects nearly 1 million people over the age of 18 in the United States.
Insomnia, sleep apnea contribute to reports of cognitive decline in women with multiple sclerosis
Sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnea may contribute to perceived cognitive decline, including ability to follow instructions and memory, in women with multiple sclerosis. Cognitive decline affects up to 70% of people with MS.
Can Mediterranean Diet Help People with MS Preserve Thinking Skills?
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) who follow a Mediterranean diet may have a lower risk for problems with memory and thinking skills than those who do not follow the diet, according to a preliminary study released today, March 1, 2023, that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 75th Annual Meeting being held in person in Boston and live online from April 22-27, 2023.
MS Center at Jersey Shore University Medical Center Nationally Recognized as a Center for Comprehensive MS Care
Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center’s Multiple Sclerosis Center, a leading provider of care for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in New Jersey, has been officially recognized as a Center for Comprehensive MS Care through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Partners in MS Care program. It is one of only two Centers for Comprehensive MS Care in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
Poor Gut Health May Drive Multiple Sclerosis — Better Diet May Ease It
A Rutgers study shows how digestive inflammation may drive MS and provides further evidence that more fiber by combat the condition.
Immunotherapy eliminates disease-causing cells in mice with MS-like disease
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have shown that the cancer therapy known as CAR-T can be applied to multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease of the nervous system. The findings extend the powerful tool of immunotherapy to autoimmune diseases, a class of diseases that are often debilitating and difficult to treat.
Review: Are Climate Change and Air Pollution Making Neurologic Diseases Worse?
People with neurologic diseases like headache, dementia, multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease may experience worsening symptoms due to climate change, according to a scoping review of research published in the November 16, 2022, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Addressing Health Inequities Could Help Avert a Neurologic Health Crisis
The closing plenary session at ANA2022 spotlighted neurologic health inequities and presented new research finding that neighborhood disadvantage strongly predicted likelihood of death from neurologic conditions independent of individual wealth and demographics.
Health Care Spending May Help Explain Link Between MS and Latitude
Researchers have known people who live farther from the equator are more likely to develop multiple sclerosis (MS) and have often attributed that to vitamin D exposure. But countries farther from the equator are also more likely to be wealthier than countries nearer to the equator. A new analysis shows that the amount a country spends on health care may help explain the link between MS and latitude. This new research is published in the August 24, 2022, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Quality of Life with Multiple Sclerosis May Depend on Several Factors
Quality of life is a measure of a person’s level of comfort, health and happiness. For people with multiple sclerosis (MS), a new study has found there are specific factors that may affect a person’s physical and mental quality of life. The study is published in the August 10, 2022, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Multiple sclerosis drug works in a surprising way
Drugs called interferon betas are common treatments for multiple sclerosis. Interferon beta, a protein known to contain a zinc-binding pocket, is thought to reduce proinflammatory molecules in MS patients. But researchers now report in ACS Chemical Neuroscience that the molecule reduces the binding of three components — zinc, C-peptide and albumin — to red blood cells.
Researchers Identify Potential Target for Treating Autoimmune Diseases
New research using a mouse model for multiple sclerosis has uncovered a potential new area to explore for possible treatments for autoimmune disorders.
April Research Highlights
This tipsheet highlights the latest medical discoveries and faculty news at Cedars-Sinai. Links to full news releases are included with each item.
Study Finds Rate of Multiple Sclerosis Similarly High in Black and White People
The rate of multiple sclerosis (MS) cases varies greatly by race and ethnicity. A new study suggests that the prevalence of MS in Black and white people is similarly high, while much lower in Hispanic and Asian people. The research is published in the April 27, 2022, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Does MS Affect Survival Rate After Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis?
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer may be at a higher risk of dying from cancer or other causes over the next six months to one year than people with colorectal cancer who do not have MS, according to a study published in the September 15, 2021, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Show Robust T-Cell Responses to mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines
New research shows that Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients undergoing anti-CD20 (aCD20) treatment – which depletes the B cells that contribute to the MS attacks – are able to mount robust T-cell responses to the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, despite having a muted antibody response to the vaccines.
Symptoms, like pain and fatigue, often cluster in newly diagnosed MS
Patients with newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis report several symptoms – pain, fatigue, depression and anxiety – in the first year. A significant number of them experience a cluster of two or more of those symptoms, according to a new study from Michigan Medicine.
Are Multiple Sclerosis Drugs Used Early on in the Disease Also Effective Later?
Finding treatments for advanced multiple sclerosis (MS) has been difficult. But new research may help neurologists identify which drugs are best for people with the advanced form of MS called secondary progressive MS. The new study, published in the June 30, 2021, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, found that the more potent disease-modifying drugs are more effective in reducing flare-ups in secondary progressive MS than the less potent drugs that tend to be safer to take. However, the researchers found no difference in how fast the disease progressed between these two types of drugs.
Does Socioeconomic Status Explain Why Black People with MS Have More Disability?
A new study suggests that even when differences in socioeconomic status are taken into consideration, Black people with multiple sclerosis (MS) may be more negatively impacted by the disease than white people with MS. The research is published in the June 30, 2021, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study found that Black people with MS had lower scores on certain measures of neurological health, like dexterity and walking tests and showed more evidence of disease progression on brain scans.
Patients Taking Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Respond Less Well to COVID-19 Vaccine
One-quarter of people who take the drug methotrexate for common immune system disorders — from rheumatoid arthritis to multiple sclerosis — mount a weaker immune response to a COVID-19 vaccine, a new study shows.
New study finds low levels of a sugar metabolite associates with disability and neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis
A new University of California, Irvine-led study finds low serum levels of the sugar N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), is associated with progressive disability and neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS).
Could Rising Temperatures Send More People with MS to the Hospital?
As average temperatures around the globe climb, a preliminary study has found people with multiple sclerosis (MS) may expect worsening symptoms, enough to send them to the hospital more often. The preliminary study released today, March 2, 2021, will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 73rd Annual Meeting being held virtually April 17 to April 22, 2021.
Press and Media Registration is Open for 2021 AAN Annual Meeting
No matter where you are in the world, the 2021 AAN Annual Meeting is one click away. Journalists can now register to attend the 73rd Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) being held virtually April 17-22, 2021. The AAN Annual Meeting is the world’s largest gathering of neurologists who come together to share the latest advances in neurologic research.
Vitamin D: An Important Factor for Overall Health
Essential for bone health, immune response and even memory and thinking, vitamin D may also be linked to preventing severe COVID-19 symptoms.
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplants May Provide Long-Term Benefit for People with MS
A new study shows that intense immunosuppression followed by a hematopoietic stem cell transplant may prevent disability associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) from getting worse in 71% of people with relapsing-remitting MS for up to 10 years after the treatment. The research is published in the January 20, 2021, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study also found that in some people their disability improved over 10 years after treatment. Additionally, more than half of the people with the secondary progressive form of MS experienced no worsening of their symptoms 10 years after a transplant.
Study: Medication May Improve Thinking Skills in Advanced Multiple Sclerosis
People with the advanced form of multiple sclerosis (MS) called secondary progressive MS who took the drug siponimod for one to two years had improved cognitive processing speed compared to those who did not take the drug, according to a new study published in the December 16, 2020, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Multiple Sclerosis May Not Put You at Risk for Breast, Colorectal Cancers
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) may not be at higher risk of developing two of the three cancers that occur most commonly in people with MS, breast and colorectal cancer, than people who don’t have the disease, according to a new study published in the November 25, 2020, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. However, the study did find that people with MS had a higher incidence of bladder cancer.
Smartphone Use Offers Tool to Treat MS, Other Diseases
Monitoring how patients with multiple sclerosis or other degenerative diseases use their smartphones could provide valuable information to help get them better treatment. In the journal Chaos, researchers used an app to record the keystroke dynamics of a control group and those of subjects in various stages of MS treatment. In doing so, they observed changes in the way people with MS typed that were not seen in subjects who did not have the disease.
A Novel Immunotherapy Proves Effective in Animal Models of Multiple Sclerosis
Jefferson researchers develop an approach to specifically impede the autoimmune response that drives the disease, while leaving the rest of the immune system fully functioning.
New Population of Immune Cells Could Play a Role in Multiple Sclerosis
Researchers uncover defining features of a subset of T-cells that may drive autoimmunity in MS, and could prove to be a new target for therapy.
New research reveals why low oxygen damages the brain
Brain cell dysfunction in low oxygen is, surprisingly, caused by the very same responder system that is intended to be protective, according to a new published study by a team of researchers at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.
Study to explore if impaired metabolic pathways lead to MS progression
University at Buffalo researchers have received a $957,000 grant from the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command to explore the progression of neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS).