Blood Signals Predict Multiple Sclerosis 7 Years Early
- Scientists have identified blood protein signals that may indicate the presence of multiple sclerosis (MS) up to seven years before symptoms manifest. This early detection offers opportunities for...
- MS is a chronic, incurable autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the brain and spinal cord, leading to various debilitating health issues like memory problems, mobility issues,...
- Researchers at UCSF analyzed data from blood samples of US military personnel, identifying patterns in over 5,000 proteins.
Early Blood Protein Signals May Predict Multiple Sclerosis Years Before Symptoms
Scientists have identified blood protein signals that may indicate the presence of multiple sclerosis (MS) up to seven years before symptoms manifest. This early detection offers opportunities for treatment, prevention, and a deeper understanding of the disease’s development.
MS is a chronic, incurable autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the brain and spinal cord, leading to various debilitating health issues like memory problems, mobility issues, vision impairment, mood disturbances, and pain.
Key Protein Indicators & Timelines:
- Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG): Levels increase sharply, on average, seven years before symptom onset, suggesting an early attack on the nervous system’s protective layers.
- neurofilament Light Chain (NfL): Becomes more abundant around six years before symptoms,indicating damage to the nervous system itself.
- Interleukin-3 (IL-3): Elevated levels appear ahead of time, acting as a chemical messenger that recruits immune cells to affected areas.
Researchers at UCSF analyzed data from blood samples of US military personnel, identifying patterns in over 5,000 proteins. Combining the 21 proteins showing the strongest early changes could led to an accurate blood test for presymptomatic MS.
Neurologist Ahmed Abdelhak (UCSF) believes this research could be a “game-changer” for understanding and managing MS, opening opportunities for diagnosis, monitoring, and potential treatment.
Related: Scientists Identify Specific Bacteria Linked to Multiple Sclerosis
Related: First-of-its-kind trial gives new hope for treating multiple sclerosis