Fatty Acids in Brain May Help Multiple Sclerosis Patients

June 6, 2012

Fatty acids that occur naturally in the brain may reduce inflammation associated with multiple sclerosis, a Stanford University study suggests, a finding that may lead to a new approach to treat the disease.

Researchers showed that injecting high doses of the fatty acids, or lipids, into paralyzed mice with MS symptoms reduced inflammation in their brains and allowed them to regain movement within 24 to 36 hours, said Lawrence Steinman, an author of the paper published today in the journal Science Translational Medicine.

Multiple sclerosis is caused by an abnormal immune response that attacks the protective covering that surrounds nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The assault stops nerve cells from sending signals, sapping patients’ energy, blurring their vision and slowly robbing them of mobility, balance and coordination. Today’s findings hold promise as a new way to safeguard vulnerable nerves in MS patients, Steinman said.

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