Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. It is the most common neurodegenerative disease in young adults, affecting nerve impulses within the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. It occurs when tiny scars develop within the central nervous system and, depending on where in the system they develop, these scars then affect the body’s function.

How The Florey is making a difference

Our researchers are using a combination of preclinical models and human genetic screens to unravel the cellular changes that give rise to multiple sclerosis. We have identified an important set of signalling molecules on immune system cells and on the cells that provide neurons with their insulating myelin wrapping. Using brain samples from multiple sclerosis patients, we are unravelling the role of somatic genetic mutations which build up over time and may pre-dispose some people to the progressive form of multiple sclerosis.

More information

For more information contact MS Australia on 1300 010 158.

Latest news

Latest Florey news on Multiple sclerosis