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Breakthroughs Offer Hope to MS Patients
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Page: << Prev | 1 | 2 | 3 Lou noted that new research has successfully used stem cells to help replace myelin in the brains of mice. "This discovery has shed light on the great potential of using stem cells in MS treatment," she said.
And last year, researchers proved that an experimental DNA vaccine to fight multiple sclerosis is safe and stands a good chance of being effective. The vaccine works by thwarting the immune system's attack on the myelin sheaths protecting nerve fibers.
Other advances noted by Lou include:
- Better and earlier diagnosis owing to advances in imaging technology.
- Improved drugs to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms, and the accumulation of lesions in the brain and spinal cord.
- More aggressive rehabilitation programs developed specifically for MS patients.
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"Every time we get our Journal of Neurology, more than half of it is about MS and how we can treat MS," Kantor said. "The MS of today is not the MS of even 15 years ago. We are learning more about it at a rapid rate."
More information
To learn more, visit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
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Copyright © 2008 ScoutNews, LLC. All rights reserved.
Last updated 7/6/2008
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SOURCES: Daniel Kantor, M.D., assistant professor, neurology, and director, Comprehensive Multiple Sclerosis Center, University of Florida, Jacksonville; Jennie Q. Lou, M.D., MSc, professor, public health and internal medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; National Multiple Sclerosis Society
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