New therapeutic approaches identified for Multiple Sclerosis

Researchers are developing new approaches to treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS) that move beyond traditional methods of broad immune system suppression.

In Germany, scientists at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf have identified Complement factor H (CFH) as a potential protective mechanism. By analyzing retinal neurons, researchers discovered that the presence of this protein helps prevent inflammation and the death of neurons by counteracting oxidative stress caused by the disease.

Simultaneously, a collaborative study involving the University of Zurich and the Karolinska Institute has tested a novel therapy designed to induce immune tolerance. This method uses red blood cells coupled with specific protein components to present antigens to the immune system in a way that encourages it to stop attacking healthy structures. Initial clinical trials indicate the approach is safe and well-tolerated, offering a potential way to target MS without compromising the entire immune system.