MS Australia has taken a major step forward in multiple sclerosis research with the launch of a new national collaborative platform focused on understanding the relationship between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and MS.
The EBV in MS National Collaborative Platform, unveiled at MS Australia’s inaugural Frontiers in MS Research Symposium at the University of Sydney on November 29, aims to unite Australia’s top researchers in exploring this crucial connection.
EBV, which affects approximately 90% of adults worldwide, has emerged as a significant focus in MS research. While many people experience mild or no symptoms from this common virus, landmark discoveries in 2022 provided compelling evidence that EBV infection is necessary for the development of MS.
Dr Julia Morahan, MS Australia’s Head of Research, explains the significance: “The immune response to EBV might set the stage for immune attack on the brain and spinal cord in MS. By consolidating research efforts through this platform, we hope to accelerate discoveries into the role of EBV in MS.”
A key feature of the initiative is the national EBV in MS Working Group, comprising over 30 clinical and academic researchers. This team will collaborate on national clinical trials and fundamental research, while also developing a national MS EBV biobank to support new discoveries.
Professor Michael Barnett, MS neurologist and researcher at the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre, emphasises the importance of early intervention: “In MS we say ‘time is tissue’ – the earlier we treat, the more damage can be prevented and disability delayed.”
The platform will focus on various aspects of MS prevention, from stopping the disease before it starts to improving symptom management and enhancing quality of life. This aligns with the global Pathways to Cures research strategy in MS.
MS Australia CEO Rohan Greenland describes the launch as “a pivotal step in MS Australia’s mission to address the root causes of MS, to ultimately prevent its onset.”
This initiative represents a significant advancement in Australian MS research, bringing together expertise and resources to work towards better treatments and potentially a cure for MS. It showcases MS Australia’s ongoing commitment to driving collaborative research and improving outcomes for people living with MS.
For more information about the EBV in MS National Collaborative Platform or MS research in Australia, visit MS Australia to learn more.