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    Centenary Institute > Research > MS – Multiple Sclerosis

MS – Multiple Sclerosis

MS is a is a chronic disease that attacks the central nervous system

MS is caused when the immune system mistakenly treats myelin, the protective fatty coating that insulates nerve cells, as a threat. Ordinarily, myelin allows signals from the brain to move quickly and efficiently through the central nervous system. When the body’s immune cells attack and destroy myelin, the resulting nerve damage causes these messages to be delayed or miscommunicated, causing the symptoms of MS.

There are three different types of MS. Relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) is the most common form. Many people with RRMS will eventually develop Secondary progressive MS (SPMS). It can develop years following the initial onset of relapsing symptoms. Primary progressive MS (PPMS) is diagnosed in approximately 10-15% of people with MS. 

At Centenary our research is focused on finding ways to repair myelin by investigating and developing drugs that can better treat MS.

The current treatments for MS are limited to immunosuppressive drugs that suppress autoimmunity and inflammation. Our research team looks at group of drugs which mimic the signals produced by the naturally occurring hormone-like molecules.

The current research suggests that this hormone-like molecule is essential in myelin regeneration. It will determine if these drugs assist in myelin protection and promote the formation of new myelin to repair the damaged nervous system.

This project operates at the forefront of multiple sclerosis research and could lead to the development of a new therapeutic approach to improve outcomes for people with MS.

Associate Professor Anthony Don, Head of Lipid Metabolism and Neurochemistry Laboratory leads this research.

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  • 1 in 1000 people are living with MS in Australia

  • 20 – 40 years is the most common age for diagnosis with MS

  • 75% of all people with MS are women

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The current treatments for MS are limited to immunosuppressive drugs that suppress autoimmunity and inflammation. Our research team looks at group of drugs which mimic the signals produced by the naturally occurring hormone-like molecules.

The current research suggests that this hormone-like molecule is essential in myelin regeneration. It will determine if these drugs assist in myelin protection and promote the formation of new myelin to repair the damaged nervous system.

This project operates at the forefront of multiple sclerosis research and could lead to the development of a new therapeutic approach to improve outcomes for people with MS.

Associate Professor Anthony Don, Head of Lipid Metabolism and Neurochemistry Laboratory leads this research.

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