Could modified heparin promote myelin repair?

Lead researcher:: Professor Sue Barnett
Based at:: University of Glasgow
MS Society funding:: £150,362
Status:: Complete

In MS the protective myelin coating around nerve cells is damaged. Our bodies have the ability to repair myelin, but unfortunately in MS this process becomes less effective over time.

Researchers have discovered that myelin repair can be boosted in the lab using a modified version of the blood thinning drug heparin. It could also help to protect nerves from damage.

What happens in this project?

Our scientists will investigate the potential benefits of modified heparin in animal model of MS. They also compare the benefits of giving the drug orally or as an injection.

How will it help people with MS?

If modified heparin can myelin repair and protect nerves from damage in mice then it can be tested as a treatment for all forms of MS.

Because other forms of heparin have safely been used as medicines for many years it could go through clinical trials more quickly than other drugs.

The difference you can make

There are currently no treatments available to help repair damage caused by MS. We need to support innovative research like this if treatments are to be reality.

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Researcher wearing a mask looks at MRI scans

Could modified heparin promote myelin repair?

What happens in this project?

How will it help people with MS?

The difference you can make