So, What’s New on the MS Research Horizon?

Over the last few years, there have been several new MS medications and treatments approved by the FDA. Currently, there are fourteen main (maybe more) medications available for Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) and six medications for Secondary Progressive MS.

I am currently using Ocrevus which was the first approved for Primary Progressive MS in 2017. There are several research projects in work such as myelin nerve repair, new Stem Cell improvement, and a study to determine if an MS vaccine is possible.

Let’s take a look at NervGen NVG-921 research

The study has shown promise in repairing damaged nerves in mice during the investigative phase. The study is developing an innovative treatment for nerve and neurodegenerative diseases. NervGen is looking at the viability of utilizing this concept for multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and Alzheimer’s treatment.¹

Research indicates a neural receptor PTPq may impede the repair of nerve damage. They believe by slowing the activity of this receptor has the potential to promote and increase the body’s ability to repair nerve damage and reduce inflammation.

The current phase one is testing the acceptability of dosages in healthy patients. Once this portion is completed the study will phase in those with Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.

Stem cell research in 2021

In 1968 the first bone marrow transplant between siblings was done and created a host of medical studies. Today, stem cell is used to treat several diseases such as anemia, leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, sickle cell anemia, and server cases of thalassemia.

One study in Italy with 210 MS patients from 2007 to 2019 for both RRMS and PPMS showed improvements overall. For those with PPMS the study indicated seventy-one percent showed no worsening symptoms over 5 years and fifty-seven percent over 10 years. Results are promising and one of the longest studies to date.²

A DVCSTEM study this year has shown very promising results. The study focuses on Mesenchymal stem cells which can reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system of which is beneficial for MS patients. This specific stem cell, immunomodulator regulates the immune system, making this a promising therapy that potentially could improve symptoms and stabilize progression.³

MS can be prevented?

You have heard the commercials “What! shingles can be prevented” well you're now hearing “what! MS can be prevented.” Yep, you heard it here a vaccine for MS! Well, it’s a great thought anyway and being looked at by BioNTeck which helped develop one of the current COVID vaccines. BioNTech is looking at the mRNA vaccine model to see if it can be used against the inflammation which can cause myelin delamination.

They are currently looking at their COVID vaccine model to see if it can be modified to protect against potential nerve damage. While this is an exciting concept, several hurdles need to be cleared before we are likely to see such strategies trialed in an official research project.⁴

Let's finish it up with a smile and laugh

So, what’s the funny or positive you ask? When I was asked about MS, how many people it impacts, type I have, my response was “around two million in the world, as for me, I’m an overachiever as always since only ten to fifteen percent have PPMS.”

Yep, once again their look was priceless and a bit puzzled. Again, thank you for your time, wish you the very best, and remember life is what we make it, so make it priceless. Until the next time is safe, spread kindness and enjoy each minute of every day!