The Symptoms Of Multiple Sclerosis Blog

Yale University researchers have discovered a new way that autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) can be triggered, they reported Monday in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Scientists have long known the molecule TGF-Beta (transforming growth factor Beta) plays a pivotal role in preventing T cells from launching an attack on the body’s own tissues.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Michigan Chapter’s 2008 da Vinci Award® winners are announced. The da Vinci Awards recognize the most innovative developments and research in adaptive and assistive technology. The Society understands well difficulties people experience when faced with physical disabilities and created the da Vinci Awards to recognize the most innovative projects that enable everyone to participate and contribute in all aspects of society.

The CUPID (Cannabinoid Use in Progressive Inflammatory brain Disease) study at the Peninsula Medical School in Plymouth has reached an important milestone with the news that the full cohort of 493 people with multiple sclerosis (MS) has been recruited to the study. CUPID is a clinical trial which will evaluate whether tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of many compounds found in the in the cannabis plant (and the main active ingredient) is able to slow the progression of MS.

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NASDAQ: TEVA) and Active Biotech AB (OMX NORDIC: ACTI) announced that patients are being enrolled for the BRAVO Phase III pivotal trial. BRAVO is a global, 24-month, double-blind study designed to evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of the oral compound laquinimod versus placebo, and to provide risk-benefit data for laquinimod versus a currently available injectable treatment, Avonex®.

A report published by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) and the MS Trust states the NHS is failing people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The report identified that the estimated 85,000 people in the UK with MS are subject to a “postcode lottery”, with access to basic services – including pain relief – a matter of geographical location.

A survey of services for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) by the Royal College of Physicians’ Clinical Effectiveness and Evaluation Unit (CEEu) and the MS Trust shows that the NHS is still failing to implement the 2003 NICE* guidelines on the management of MS patients.

Research conducted at The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI) has contributed significantly to a major licensing agreement signed between Australian biotechnology company, Bionomics, (ASX:BNO) and Germany- based pharmaceutical company, Merck Serono. Under the Development and Licensing Agreement, Merck Serono will seek to develop new treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) and other autoimmune conditions.