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New study untangles how Epstein-Barr virus triggers immune response in MS
STAT • • health
Key Points:
- Researchers have identified how the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) triggers immune responses that cause inflammation and nervous system damage in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, according to a study published in Science Translational Medicine.
- The study's lead author, Kjetil Bjornevik from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, highlighted the importance of understanding EBV's role in MS to develop targeted vaccines or antiviral treatments.
- These new insights could lead to MS therapies that avoid the significant side effects associated with current immunosuppressant drugs.
- Experts like Syed Rizvi from the Multiple Sclerosis Center of Rhode Island emphasize that pinpointing specific molecules involved in MS is crucial for creating more precise and effective treatments.
