National MS Society Invests Over $10.5 Million In New Research To Stop Multiple Sclerosis, Restore Function And End MS Forever

- Myelin repair strategies, physical activity and dietary approaches are among the new leads being explored

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Oct 11, 2016, 01:49 ET

NEW YORK, Oct. 11, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has committed more than $10.5 million to support an expected 42 new MS research projects. These are part of a comprehensive research strategy aimed at stopping MS, restoring function that has been lost, and ending the disease forever – for every single person with MS.

This financial commitment is the latest in the Society's relentless research efforts and part of a projected investment of $50 million in 2016 alone, to support more than 380 new and ongoing studies around the world. The Society pursues all promising paths to drive research breakthroughs in MS to fuel life-changing treatments and everyday solutions that are crucial for people to live their best lives.

Just a few of the new cutting-edge research projects include: five studies exploring different aspects of how to promote the repair of nerve-insulating myelin to restore function in MS; a study at Ohio State exploring whether increasing physical activity levels can help reverse cognitive problems; a study at Mt. Sinai testing a dietary approach to treating MS; and two policy studies looking at factors driving the escalating costs of MS medications. One new commercial partnership is a London-based project propelling development of treatments to protect the nervous system from MS-related injury.

"These new research investments are intended to answer questions that will accelerate breakthroughs that change the world for people with MS," noted Bruce Bebo, PhD, National MS Society's Executive Vice President, Research.

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body. Worldwide, more than 2.3 million people live with the unpredictable challenges of multiple sclerosis.

To find the best research with the most promise, the National MS Society relies on more than 130 world-class scientists who volunteer their time to carefully evaluate hundreds of proposals every year. This rigorous evaluation process assures that Society funds fuel research that delivers results in the shortest time possible.

Download details about the new research awards.

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SOURCE National Multiple Sclerosis Society