New protein could help reduce symptoms of MS

US researchers have identified a protein they believe is key to the health of myelin, the material that insulates nerve and brain cells.

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) cells that have been stripped of the myelin, causing poor communication around the body.

Scientists at the Boston University School of Medicine have discovered that MS patients may not be able to reproduce myelin because their immune systems attack the cells responsible for creation before they mature.

The team also found that adding the protein Klotho caused these cells to mature and produce healthy myelin.

Professor Carmela Abraham, who led the study, said: "These results taken together indicate that Klotho could become a drug target for multiple sclerosis and other white matter diseases, including AD."

Continuing their research, the team are now looking for ways to develop drugs that will increase the amount of Klotho in the brain.

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