Cells from MS lesions acquire mutations faster than normal cells

Neurons collected from brain lesions in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) accumulate genetic mutations at a much faster rate than healthy neurons, according to new research.

Scientists also discovered that these neurons have distinct mutation patterns compared to cells outside the lesions, suggesting a unique molecular process may be driving these changes.

These findings provide fresh insight into how inflammation – a key factor in MS – may contribute to nerve damage and disease progression. Researchers hope that building on this knowledge could lead to new treatments designed to slow or even stop MS from worsening.

They said that this study is significant as it’s the first to show that inflammation could be connected to the death of neurons in MS via accelerated mutation of the genetic code. Once they know what molecular disruptions kill the neurons, the researchers hope to be able to find a way to save them or keep them alive longer to lessen progressive disease.