MS News Roundup, Week of June 4th - 10th

In this week's episode of The Just M.S. Show, host Justin Loizos discusses the latest developments in the world of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) research and awareness.

Justin begins by discussing a groundbreaking discovery by researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, who have identified a key gene, DDX39B, that could shape our risk for developing MS. This discovery could potentially open new doors in our efforts to prevent and better treat this disease. (Source: UVA Health Newsroom - newsroom.uvahealth.com/2023/06/07/ms-discovery-ids-factor-that-shapes-your-risk/)

Next, Justin takes us to Nigeria, where Roche and the patient advocacy group Multiple Sclerosis Awareness in Nigeria (MSAIN) have launched an awareness campaign for World MS Day. They've developed a football that mirrors the signs and symptoms of MS, a creative and engaging way to raise awareness about MS and the importance of early diagnosis. (Source: Complete Sports - completesports.com/roche-neurologists-msain-raise-awareness-about-multiple-sclerosis-ms-in-nigeria-through-football/)

Justin then discusses a study presented at the 2023 Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers Annual Meeting that sheds light on the effects of de-escalating disease-modifying therapy (DMT) in patients with MS. The study suggests that de-escalation of DMT could be a safe possibility for some patients. (Source: Neurology Live - neurologylive.com/view/bridging-gap-de-escalation-ms-disease-modifying-therapies-carolyn-goldschmidt)

He also covers the topic of stem cell therapies for MS. While they've been a topic of interest for nearly two decades, their clinical success has been limited. However, ongoing clinical studies are providing more insight into how these therapies compare to available treatments. (Source: Drug Discovery News - drugdiscoverynews.com/the-bumpy-road-to-treating-multiple-sclerosis-with-stem-cells-15687)

Finally, Justin talks about potential new treatments on the horizon, including BTK inhibitors, CD40 Ligand inhibitors, and N-Acetyl Cysteine. He also discusses new biomarkers like neurofilament light and glial fibrillary acidic protein that could help doctors and researchers understand what’s happening in our brains.

Remember, we're all in this together, and every step forward in research is a step closer to a cure. Stay strong, stay positive, and keep fighting.

The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments.

www.justmultiplesclerosis.com