Does cell ageing cause progression in MS?
- Lead researcher:
- Dr Richard Nicholas
- Based at:
- Imperial College London
- MS Society funding:
- £40,000
- Status:
- Complete
Progression in MS is strongly associated with age. This innovative project will test the idea that cell ageing is responsible for progression of disability.
About the project
As we get older, all our individual cells age too. Damage to a cell’s DNA builds up over time, and this can stop the cell dividing - a process called senescence. We know DNA damage is accelerated by inflammation, and that senescent cells themselves can contribute to this damage.
What happens in this project?
Our researchers have shown that there is a build-up of senescent cells in lesions in mice with an MS-like condition. In this study, they want to understand if this increase in senescent cells is responsible for the build-up of disability seen in progressive MS.
How will it help people with MS?
Slowing, stopping or even reversing disability progression is our number one priority.
If we can identify a new process that explains progression then we can start developing treatments to target it. It could also be used to develop tests that help predict when someone’s MS will become progressive.
The difference you can make
There are currently no treatments available to help repair damage caused by MS. We need to support innovative projects like these if treatments are to become a reality.
The next research breakthrough is in reach
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