Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder in which the immune system attacks the myelin (the fatty sheath that insulates nerve fibres) in the central nervous system. This attack causes the formation of sclerosis (areas of scar-like tissue), otherwise known as lesions. The damage caused can affect individuals in a variety of ways; some people may only experience mild symptoms, such as dizziness and tingling sensations, while others might become unable to speak, walk or even see. The disease is often progressive, becoming increasingly debilitating. Currently, no cure exists for MS, and there are only treatments to help slow the progression, manage symptoms and treat flare-ups.
Research into potential methods of repairing MS damage is therefore crucial – exactly what Professor Anna Williams’ team at the University of Edinburgh’s Institute for Regeneration and Repair has been focussing on. In the lab, the researchers grew cells that differentiate into myelin-producing cells. Normally, these cells are unable to effectively re-myelinate nerves, due to repellant signals from MS lesions. To circumvent this, they used CRISPR-Cas9 (a gene editing technique) to allow the cells to ignore the repellant signals. When transplanted into the brains of mice, the cells demonstrated an ability to enhance the repair of myelin.
Remyelination techniques such as these represent a huge step forward in MS research; it could allow reversal of the damage caused, rather than simply slowing the progression or simply providing respite from the symptoms. Of course, the research has only been conducted in rodent subjects and therefore requires rigorous verification before it can be tested on humans. While there are still many hurdles to overcome before this research can impact the millions living with MS, Williams’ research demonstrates an exciting development in the search for a cure.
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