FEBRUARY 2018 MS NEWS -Vitamin C Repairs Myelin, Cannabis Works, Diet Is Important (& More)
dr.vanta
Looking for a MS remyelination drug? Vitamin C repairs myelin sheath.
The repair of the myelin sheaths involves the differentiation of the oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) into mature oligodendrocytes (OLs). Chinese scientists show the benefits of vitamin C in this new (in vitro) study. Vitamin C (in its active form L-ascorbyl-2-phosphate) was found to play a key in the conversion of OPCs into OLs, and helps the formation of myelin sheaths in the OPCs [1].
Do you want to improve your symptoms of MS ? Focus on your mindset
This new article published in “Neurology Now” explores the benefits of practicing “self-efficacy”—the belief that you have a degree of control over conditions that affect your life. Self efficacy can literally transform your life and how you manage MS symptoms[2]. Read this article and also check Ca Do It Multiple Sclerosis website they have webinars and other tools to help you take control of your health.
Happy to see others looking at the importance of mindset to manage MS. More details about the mindset in this section of my blog. As you can see from the success stories, switching from a passive role of a patient to a proactive role is the starting point of reversing MS.
PEMF
Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) stimulation is a powerful tool to manage MS. I wrote a bit about PEMF here and here. In the news this month- a patent application for new PEMF device specifically designed for people with MS (technical details : 10 MHz sinusoidal carrier waves, the bursts repeat at between 0.1 and 5 Hz have a field strength of between 1 and 200 miliGauss)[3].
Some thoughts: Based on my review of several types of PEMF devices, I realized that different PEMF devices can work for MS- from very low intensity to moderate or high PEMF intensities). I think there is no “perfect” PEMF that will work for everyone, and the device should be individualized.
A special west that can improve balance and posture for people with MS [4] . This west called “ Balance Wear “ had been on the market for some years. Based on their website, it available in US only and requires a consultation with a trained PT or OT. Looks like a very smart concept, and there are some research studies on these particular products.
More News About Diet, Supplements & Herbs
Diet plays a key role in managing MS: Another study showing the impact of diet on gut microbiome, the function of immune (B) cells and antibody production. ‘Western’ diets (high fat and high salt) had been shown to alter the gut microbiome, leading to IgA responses and the production of autoantibodies [5]. A second new study reviews the changes in the gut microbiome in MS and influences the immune response [6].
To drink or not to drink coffee? While coffee may aggravate certain autoimmune diseases, it seem to be beneficial (is a protective factor) in MS [7].
Human placenta: A new cases study showing that human placenta can help improve symptoms of MS [8]. A review of studies on human placenta(including 50 clinical studies) shows positive results for treating musculoskeletal and neurological conditions [9].
Cannabis & cannabinoids (the synthetic cannabis) – 2 systematic reviews. One new systematic review of 1085 articles on the benefits of natural and synthetic cannabinoids found evidence that cannabinoids can help improve nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy and may improve spasticity (primarily in multiple sclerosis). There is some evidence that can also ameliorate neuropathic pain (tingling and numbness)[10]. A second systematic review of 32 studies (including well designed randomized controlled studies) evaluated the benefits of cannabinoids specifically for MS. The conclusion: cannabinoids have modest effects in MS for pain and spasticity [11]. If you consider taking cannabis supplements make sure you seek medical advice to understand both benefits and risks.
Melatonin is neuroprotective and can suppress the progression of EAE (the animal model of MS). Technical : melatonin decreases of the levels of oxidative stress, by activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway and increased levels of anti-oxidant enzymes HO-1 and NQO1 expression [12].
Vitamin D decreases the inflammation and autoimmunity in EAE (animal model of MS), specifically influencing Th17 dominance, according to this new study [13]. Plenty of research papers show the benefits of vitamin D for managing MS. Everyone with this condition should check vit D levels and supplement accordingly with this vitamin.
MS affects the heart function: A new study showing that MS has an impact on cardiovascular function. Since MS is considered a neurological condition, most people diagnosed with MS will not think of heart complications. Doctors to not refer someone with MS for heart tests either (unless there are specific symptoms). Yet, studies show that MS increases the risk of heart diseases. It would be a very good idea to investigate the heart function (echocardiography, Doppler) even if you have no symptoms suggesting heart diseases. Technical: several factors involved in the development of cardiovascular dysfunction in MS: autonomous nervous dysfunction, physical invalidity, increased oxidative stress, and systemic inflammatory status [14].
EBV-MS link
Another study showing clear correlation of Ebstein Barr infection with MS. 100% of individuals with MS tested positive for EBV in this study [15] .
Drugs
Fampridine can significantly improve cognitive problems, as well as fatigue and depression associated with MS, according to this new study [16]. Fampridine had been researched in the past for treating MS, with great results. Fampridine is a potassium channel blocker which will likely gain more popularity for treating MS symptoms in the future (it is already approved by FDA since 2010 to manage MS symptoms) . Last year, a phase 3 clinical trial showed the benefits of this drug for improving walking speed and mobility in individuals with MS [17].
I wrote here about how often MS is misdiagnosed. This study shows that adding 1) Radiological findings and 2) positive oligoclonal bands to the MS diagnosis criteria can be very helpful (increase accuracy of the diagnosis) [18].
Antibiotics and antidepressants dominate New FDA Watch List. Why ? Serious (potentially lethal) side effects, thus FDA is evaluating the need for regulatory action. May or may not be on the market in the future. If you take any of these drugs, do talk to your doctor and look for alternatives.
On the FDA watch list (January 2018) are the following drugs:
