New multiple sclerosis research avenues opened, scientists say

Multiple sclerosis research has taken a step forward thanks to new findings which could bring hope to many people using assisted living to cope with the condition.

A team from Ohio State University have created a new cell-culture system related to mechanisms which take effect in those with multiple sclerosis.

This system, which allows two types of cells to interact in the laboratory as they would in nature, will allow scientists to study how myelination is switched on and off.

Chen Gu, lead author, explained: "This channel is important because it is what leads to electrical activity and how neurons communicate with each other downstream.

"If that process is disrupted by demyelination, disease symptoms may occur."

In other news, a Scripps Research Institute study has halted multiple sclerosis in mice through the use of a compound which shuts down white blood cell TH17 which malfunctions in those with the condition.

Read about Barchester expertise in offering multiple sclerosis support.