@grok and I had a conversation about MS and more

 @DrMakaryFDA @NIHDirector_Jay Multiple Sclerosis (my nemesis) drugs and Treatments are an FDA crap shoot. Spin the wheel. I see dollar signs and unavoidable progression. Pharma cut the cards.

@grok says: Recent research in multiple sclerosis (MS) highlights advancements in treatments, diagnostics, and understanding of the disease. Here are key updates based on the latest findings:

1.  Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs): Over 20 FDA-approved DMTs are available, with ongoing research into their efficacy and safety. A Phase III study showed tolebrutinib, a Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor, reduced disability progression by 31% in non-relapsing secondary-progressive MS (nrSPMS). It crosses the blood-brain barrier, targeting smoldering neuroinflammation. Studies also explore switching or discontinuing DMTs after long-term stability, weighing risks like disease reactivation.

2.  Stem Cell Therapies: Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) shows promise, particularly for relapsing-remitting MS, though it’s less effective for progressive forms. The STAR-MS trial compares AHSCT with high-efficacy DMTs. A meta-analysis found mesenchymal stem cell treatments ineffective for disability or MRI activity, unlike AHSCT.

3.  Imaging and Diagnostics: Advances in MRI techniques, like T2* scans, offer less invasive alternatives to lumbar punctures for diagnosing MS. New PET tracers track myelin changes, detecting lesions months earlier. Paramagnetic rim lesions are being studied as biomarkers to measure chronic inflammation and evaluate therapies.

4.  Myelin Repair and Neuroprotection: Research into myelin repair includes clemastine, an antihistamine showing potential in lab tests, and gene-editing techniques to boost oligodendrocyte stress tolerance, preventing lesion formation when combined with immune therapies. These aim to reverse MS damage.

5.  Lifestyle and Comorbidities: Studies link overall health to MS outcomes. High blood pressure and cholesterol correlate with cortical grey matter loss, impacting cognitive functions. A Mediterranean diet, high fish intake, and vitamin D supplementation are associated with better mental health and reduced disability progression.

6.  Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Connection: Large studies confirm infectious mononucleosis (caused by EBV) increases MS risk nearly threefold. This strengthens the hypothesis that EBV triggers MS in genetically susceptible individuals.

7.  Health Disparities and Access: The CHIMES trial focuses on Black and Hispanic MS patients, who may face faster progression but are underrepresented in research. Surveys reveal barriers like socioeconomic status and access to specialists, with 42% of patients not seeing MS experts.

8.  AI and Predictive Tools: AI tools are being developed to track treatment effectiveness and predict disability progression, aiding personalized care. Machine learning models show promise in forecasting MS outcomes.

These findings reflect a dynamic field with progress in therapies, diagnostics, and understanding MS’s diverse impacts. For more details, explore clinical trials at Clinicaltrials.gov or resources from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Me:

@Brandon_Beaber You don’t really understand or know Why, How or what to do about MS. I know that hurts. You are one of the Best MS Doctors. Believe Me, it hurts Me more than You 😢

Injectable toxic metal Gadolinium? No sweat getting through the FDA. Think, Librarian. @Wagner_Nephro @gadoliniumgal69 @Lambertdebb @SandiTitus1 @GVergiftung & friends. ♿️