Breakthrough early warning biomarker for MS relapse found

A new study has confirmed that serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL), a blood-based biomarker, can predict relapses in multiple sclerosis (MS) up to a year before symptoms appear. Researchers at the Medical University of Graz followed 162 people with MS over 10 years and found that sNfL levels were significantly higher in those who went on to show disease activity, such as relapse, worsening disability, or MRI changes, within the following year.

Importantly, these spikes were only predictive when measured during remission, offering an early warning of hidden nerve damage. However, the team stressed that sNfL’s usefulness is limited to short-term predictions, as its levels can be influenced by other factors over time.

The study, presented at the 2025 European Academy of Neurology Congress, also showed that sNfL levels can remain elevated for up to nine months after a relapse. While the biomarker shows promise for routine monitoring, researchers said it should be used alongside other markers, like GFAP, to gain a fuller understanding of disease progression.

The findings suggest that sNfL could play a key role in improving treatment decisions and personalising care for people living with MS.