What's New in MS Research?

When I was diagnosed in 1989, there was no effective treatment for MS. So much has changed; there are several approved treatments and the research continues to find more options. In the last several weeks, I have read about many new possibilities, including the following:

• Danish and Belgian researchers have found a computer key that may help discover more about diseases including MS.
• This month, a two year study begins exploring estriol as a treatment. Estriol has been identified as the hormone that suppresses MS symptoms during pregnancy.
• Vaccinex is commercializing a novel antibody that represents a new targeted therapy for MS.
• Enkorten, a drug developed in Bosnia, has successfully completed the first phase of clinical trials. It is the first patented drug from Bosnia for MS treatment.
• Tysabri continues to be tested as a disease-modifying treatment in view of the potential risks.
• Scientists have discovered the process used by the body to clean up damaged nerve tissue and they think this clean up process could have important implications in myelin regeneration.
• A new drug, revimmune, has been found to improve function and stop progression. Based on a follow-up, most MSers have improved movement.
• A study has found marijuana to be a wonder drug for MSers as well as other pain-causing diseases.
• BioMS is expanding its treatment options, focusing on secondary progressive MS.

This has been an exciting time for MS research, and I'm sure there are more exciting programs around the world. Wow. Sounds like hope to me.