Study offers hope of 'repairing' MS damage (BBC)

[eppur_se_muova]

Scientists have identified a way of prompting nerve system repair in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Studies on rats by Cambridge and Edinburgh University researchers identified how to help stem cells in the brain regenerate myelin sheath, needed to protect nerve fibres.

MS charities said the "exciting" Nature Neuroscience work offered hope of restoring physical functions.
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This study identified a signalling pathway in the brain which can encourage the brain's own stem cells to regenerate the fibres.

They also showed how this mechanism can be exploited to make the brain's own stem cells better able to regenerate new myelin.
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more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-11913689

abstract: http://www.nature.com/neuro/journal/vaop/ncurrent/abs/nn.2702.html

full paper: http://www.nature.com/neuro/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nn.2702.html

[KamaAina]

1. Yes!!!!

Will Pitt's wife and one of my very best friends, among others, eagerly await human trials of this.

Oh yes, to Gee Dubya Bush for blocking stem cell research for so long, a hearty:

[aquart]

2. I am so glad that there is hope for Pitt's wife and so many others.

And so sorry there wasn't even the hope for my Aunt Pat and so many others.

[Mojorabbit]

3. I have had MS for 25 yrs

and I hope this is one that will pan out.

[Elmore Furth]

4. "switched on the transformation of OPCs and ultimately led to the repair of damaged nerves."

Oligodendrocyte repair cells which repair damaged myelin may be the key to Multiple Sclerosis. Here is a study which looked at the 'on-off' switch for these cells.


Drugs hope to repair MS damage