Hot topics at our MS research conference
In July, nearly 200 researchers from the UK and across the world gathered in Liverpool to discuss the latest developments in MS research at our MS Frontiers conference. We’ve picked out some of the hot topics we heard about at the conference.
Using old drugs in new ways
Professor Anna Williams, co-director of our Edinburgh Centre for MS Research, opened up the conference by talking to us about the work going on in her lab. She focuses on ways to stop the damage to nerves in MS and boost remyelination – the process of repairing the damaged myelin.
She also spoke about the progress we’re making in testing repurposed drugs for MS. These are treatments that are already used to treat other conditions, and could be beneficial for people with MS. Using repurposed drugs means there are fewer steps in getting treatments to people who need them.
We’re funding a number of trials testing repurposed drugs for MS, including our Octopus trial for people with progressive MS.
Thinking about cognition
Professor Maria Pia Amato, from the University of Florence focused on cognition in her lecture. Trouble with memory and thinking is something that many people with MS experience and it can have a big impact on day-to-day life. But it can also be a neglected symptom. She outlined what we know currently about the pathology of MS. And highlighted the importance of finding new and better ways to treat and manage this debilitating symptom.
She told us how she is working with other researchers across the world to develop cognitive rehabilitation programs, which may include a combination of physical exercise and drugs.
Read more about cognition and MS
Professor Amato was presented with the “Ian McDonald Memorial Award”. This is awarded to researchers whose work has had a major impact on our understanding of the diagnosis, cause or treatment of MS.
Understanding ageing and MS
Professor Jennifer Graves, from the University of California, San Diego, presented her research on the impact of ageing on MS in our keynote session.
We know that MS doesn’t suddenly change because of age. But people with MS tend to have more symptoms as time goes on. And we know that as we age, our bodies become less effective at repairing the protective myelin coating that’s damaged in MS.
In her talk, Jennifer highlighted the importance of understanding more about the role biological age plays in MS. This knowledge could help us design better treatments for MS. Particularly for people who might not be eligible for any treatments at the moment.
Making an impact for people with MS
The theme of the conference was translation and impact. We asked all speakers to focus on how their research could go on to benefit people with MS. It was encouraging to see their dedication to the work that they do, and the optimism they have for the future. And we’re excited to see what new collaborations and ideas this year’s conference has sparked.
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