Multiple Sclerosis Research Update – December 2020

With the end of 2020 approaching (I don’t think anyone is going to miss it), we thought we would try out a new style of research update.  Generally, our articles are an in-depth look at a specific study that we think is important and would be of interest to the multiple sclerosis (MS) community.  However, as there is so much research being published, and MStranslate is largely unfunded, this means that there are often things that we don’t get a chance to cover in detail.

With this in mind, here is the new style – one article where 3 papers are covered in short snapshots.  After reading it, you can then let us know if you have any questions about any of these papers, or would like more detail regarding any of the three.  On the other hand, if you prefer our old approach, please let us know that as well!  For us, it is extremely important that we tailor the content we publish so that it is accessible, reflects your interests and provides enough detail to be interesting and informative.  Therefore, your feedback, thoughts and opinions count!

Now, let’s get to the articles:

Article 1: 

Researchers from Israel and Germany have conducted a Phase II clinical trial on the use of mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis.  In the short study, they found that the therapy was well-tolerated and led to many benefits, especially in people with active disease.  They believe these results will lead to a Phase III trial.  The abstract can be read here.

Article 2: 

Researchers from China have found more evidence that suggests naringenin may be a potential therapy for multiple sclerosis (our previous article on this research can be read here).  In this update, they found that naringenin use had a positive impact on the blood-brain barrier.  This led to clinical improvements in the animal model of multiple sclerosis, EAE.  The abstract can be read here.

Article 3: 

More research analysis from China has found that up to 70% of people living with multiple sclerosis experience headaches as one of their regular symptoms.  Of these, it was found that migraines and tension headaches were the most common types from which people suffered.  While it is not yet known what causes the high rate of headaches in MS, the authors have suggested that further research into whether the location of lesions influences the types of headaches experienced would be worthwhile.  The abstract can be read here.