Author Contributions

Tara Hudson-Ballard | Hang Cao | Peilin Chen | Wonhyeok Jang | Yuyin Gui | Kerui Ma | Ji Woo Jeong

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What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that impacts the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord.

The brain and spinal cord are made up of cells called neurons, which pass electrical signals between eachother for communication with the rest of the body.

Neurons are surrounded by an insulative layer called the myelin sheath, which prevents the electrical signal from leaking into the space around the neuron.

This ensures rapid communication between neurons and the rest of the body.

MS occurs when the immune system is activated by the body’s own tissues.

Specialised cells of the immune system, called B-cells and T-cells, are able to cross into the brain and spinal cord, and degrade the myelin sheath surrounding neurons.

Without the myelin sheath, the electrical impulses running through the neurons will leak into the surround space.

This means that the communication between neurons slows down, causing a range of symptoms.

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What Causes Multiple Sclerosis?

The exact cause of MS is unknown, but it is believed to be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. These include:

Genetic Causes:

• Sex: There are at least twice as many females with MS as there are females
• Gene mutations: Including the HLA gene which influences the body’s ability to recognise its own tissues

Environmental Causes

• Infections: Certain infections, like Epstein-Barr virus, may trigger an autoimmune response that attacks the myelin sheath
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Low vitamin D levels weaken immune regulation
• Smoking: Smoking promotes inflammation and may damage the immune system

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What are the Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis has many symptoms due to its impact on the central nervous system, which regulates many bodily functions. These can range from mild to severe, and often fluctuate over time, making each individual’s experience unique.

Common Symptoms:

• Muscular Symptoms: Weakness, stiffness, spasms, lack of coordination, and difficulty with movement
• Cognitive Impairment: Challenges with memory, concentration, or decision making (sometimes referred to as “brain fog”)
• Balance and Coordination Issues: Dizziness, difficulty walking, and frequent falls
• Vision Problems: Blurred or double vision, loss of vision, and eye pain
• Numbness or Tingling: Often in the face and limbs, typically on one side of the body
• Pain: Sharp pain, burning sensations, muscle aches, and joint pain
• Mental Health Difficulties: Anxiety and depression

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Types of Multiple Sclerosis

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS): A single episode of neurological symptoms

• The first step in immune system dysfunction in the CNS
• May or may not progress into MS

Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS): Episodes of symptom flare-ups (relapses) followed by periods of recovery (remissions)

• Periods of partial or full recovery in between flare-ups of symptoms

Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS): Symptoms present with less remission

• Relapses become less frequent
• Disability accumulates steadily, often affecting mobility and daily functioning

Primary Progressive MS (PPMS): Worstening of symptoms with no remissions

• Significant disease and symptom progression </aside>

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Resources

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References