Christiane’s part

In Multiple Sclerosis (or "MS") a loss of the nerves' axon coating myelin prohibits the nerve axons from efficiently conducting action and synaptic potentials. Scar tissue (called plaques or lesions) forms at the points where demyelination occurs in the brain and spinal cord, hence the name "Multiple Sclerosis” or "many scars” The demyelination found in MS is thought to be caused by an autoimmune process, in which the body's immune system attacks its own healthy tissue

 In MS, an unknown trigger activates helper T-cells whose antigen specific receptors recognize central nervous system myelin as an antigen. While what exactly activates these T-cells is unknown, but there is speculation that the trigger may be environmental or viral. Once triggered, the activated T-cells reproduce clones that have the same myelin-specific activation. All of the activated T-cells then release cytokines and adhesion molecules that enable the T-cells to adhere to and cross over the blood-brain barrier, which normally prohibits the flow of substances into the brainadhere to and cross over the blood-brain barrier, which normally prohibits the flow of substances into the brain  The proteins in these T-cells bind to myelin fragments on microglial cells and undergo a secondary activation, after which they multiply and release more cytokines, further invading the nervous system and inflaming and damaging the blood-brain barrier. The greatly weakened barrier becomes easily permeable, allowing additional immune system cells, such as B-cells and cytotoxic T-cells to cross over. Once through the barrier, B-cells produce antibodies which bind to the oligodendracytes (the cells of the CNS which create myelin) and the myelin itself. Associated macrophages procede to destroy the myelin and may also damage the oligodendracytessecondary activation, after which they multiply and release more cytokines, further invading the nervous system and inflaming and damaging the blood-brain barrier. The greatly weakened barrier becomes easily permeable, allowing additional immune system cells, such as B-cells and cytotoxic T-cells to cross over. Once through the barrier, B-cells produce antibodies which bind to the oligodendracytes (the cells of the CNS which create myelin) and the myelin itself. Associated macrophages procede to destroy the myelin and may also damage the oligodendracytes

 By lowering the rate at which the axonal membrane absorbs nerve impulses, myelin acts as an insulator, allowing NS potentials to travel rapidly through the nervous system and maintain communication between the brain and the rest of the body. This communication between the brain and the rest of the CNS and peripheral nerves is a central component of the proper functioning of the body's sensory and motor capabilities. As the myelin is destroyed, the CNS loses some of its ability to send signals throughout the body, causing the debilitating symptoms of MS

 MS has its most striking effect on motor and sensory neurons, which generally have long axons carrying information between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. Because these axons are longer, they have a greater need for the insulation myelin provides and are therefore most strikingly affected by its destruction. The most common symptoms and effects of MS demonstrate sensory or motor neuron failure  Coordination, speech, and bladder control are adversely affected when there is a breakdown of the function of motor neurons that carry signals from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, which normally perform these functions. 

 Scientists researching treatments, forms of prevention and cures for MS are looking at two different areas: the possible causes of MS and ways to repair the damage to myelin and nerve cells. Determining the cause or trigger for MS will help to both better understand the disease and develop refined treatments and determine ways to avoid or prevent the disease before it occurs. Reversing or eliminating the diseases effects will, of course, help those who already suffer from MS.  Physical therapy and medications that suppress the immune system can help with symptoms and slow disease progression

 Corticosteroids, such as oral prednisone and intravenous methylprednisolone, are prescribed to reduce nerve inflammation. Side effects may include insomnia, increased blood pressure, mood swings and fluid retention.  Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis). The liquid portion of part of your blood (plasma) is removed and separated from your blood cells. The blood cells are then mixed with a protein solution (albumin) and put back into your body. Plasma exchange may be used if your symptoms are new, severe and haven't responded to steroids.

 No therapies have shown benefit for slowing the progression of primary- progressive MS  Many of the disease-modifying therapies used to treat MS carry significant health risks. Selecting the right therapy for you will depend on careful consideration of many factors, including duration and severity of disease, effectiveness of previous MS treatments, other health issues, cost, and child-bearing status.  Beta interferons. These medications are among the most commonly prescribed medications to treat MS. They are injected under the skin or into muscle and can reduce the frequency and severity of relapses.

 Physical therapy. A physical or occupational therapist can teach you stretching and strengthening exercises and show you how to use devices to make it easier to perform daily tasks. Physical therapy along with the use of a mobility aid when necessary can also help manage leg weakness and other gait problems often associated with MS.  Muscle relaxants. You may experience painful or uncontrollable muscle stiffness or spasms, particularly in your legs. Muscle relaxants such as baclofen (Lioresal) and tizanidine (Zanaflex) may help.  Medications to reduce fatigue.  Other medications. Medications also may be prescribed for depression, pain, sexual dysfunction, and bladder or bowel control problems that are associated with MS.

 Activities such as exercise, meditation, yoga, massage, eating a healthier diet, acupuncture and relaxation techniques may help boost overall mental and physical well-being, but there are few studies to back up their use in managing symptoms of MS.