Australian researchers reveal MS may not be a myelin disease

Australian researchers suggest that Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is not a myelin disease. Their discovery, published in the UK journal Multiple Sclerosis, is the first to indicate that MS has a different origin than originally thought.

Demyelination is not the first sign of MS but caused by the complete degeneration of specific neural cells called astrocytes. It is a significant finding as understanding the early stages of MS gives the best clues for researchers to develop more targeted treatments that address the underlying cause to stop MS before it even starts.

Prof John Pri

neas and Dr John Parratt from the University of Sydney have been studying a subtype of MS called neuromyelitis optica (NMO), which is the most common form of MS in Asian populations. NMO primarily affects the optic nerve and spinal cord.

‘For the first time, we can say that NMO starts with an early, abrupt and complete destruction of astrocytes. They are missing a key component called aquaporin-4 (AQP4) and there are antibodies in the body that specifically target them and THAT may be causing MS.

If we can measure in MS and NMO patients their level of antibodies against AQP4 there may be a possibility to have a diagnosis of people who might likely develop NMO and MS very early. Treatment could potentially protect astrocytes; thus preventing this particular group from developing this insidious di

sease,’ said Dr Parratt.

The fact that the immediate cause of the demyelination is the same in both NMO and MS, this discovery is the strongest evidence to date to suggest that demyelination is secondary (not the cause) of MS. Consequently, MS may not be a disease primarily of myelin but caused by the breakdown of astrocytes – a new breakthrough in MS research.                                                                                                                                   

Mr Jeremy Wright emphasis ‘This is a new breakthrough in MS research that will influence and accelerate the development of better ways to diagnose MS and treat People with MS.’

MS Research Australia has been supporting both Prof John Prineas and Dr John Parratt since 2007. Dr John Parratt has been awarded the inaugural MSRA Junior Practitioner Fellowship to focus his research efforts specifically on MS. Prof John Prineas was awarded the Charcot Award in 2009 for his lifetime contribution to MS research.

MS is one of the most prevalent diseases of the central nervous system and directly affects an estimated 2 million people around the world. The cause of MS is not known – though Australian scientists are among those to make the most pertinent discoveries towards understanding cures and possible prevention.

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Media Coverage

• ABC Health Report - 27/09/2010  - [click for link]
• Sydney Morning Herald - 27/09/2010  - [click for link]