Lifestyle-based modifiable risk factors in multiple sclerosis: review of experimental and clinical findings

The relationship between dietary profile and adherence to the Mediterranean diet with EDSS and quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients: a retrospective cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS), one of the main neurological causes of disability seen at young ages, affects the quality of life of patients. Studies on which dietary pattern or consumption of food groups may have an impact on quality of life for MS patients are insufficient. The study was conducted to determine the relationship between adherence to Mediterranean diet and consumption levels of food groups on quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients.

METHODS

This study was conducted with 95 patients, 76 females and 19 males, aged 18-65 years, who had been diagnosed with MS for at least 2 years and did not have any other chronic disease. Food Frequency Questionnaire, Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 Instrument (MS-QoL-54) used as tools. Data were analyzed by SPSS 25.0.

RESULTS

Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with EDSS and physical and mental quality of life parameters (CPH and CMH), independent of progression. It was associated with EDSS and CMH in progressive MS. A statistically significant negative weak correlation was found between daily milk and oilseed consumption and EDSS. Daily fruit consumption was associated with CMH, and vegetable consumption was associated with both CPH and CMH.

CONCLUSIONS

The Mediterranean diet may be an effective nutritional model in MS patients and may be related to the disability level and quality of life of the patients. Some food groups can be associated with the quality of life and disability level of MS patients.

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis remains one of the most common causes of neurological disability in the young adult population (aged 18-40 years). Novel pathophysiological findings underline the importance of the interaction between genetics and environment. Improvements in diagnostic criteria, harmonised guidelines for MRI, and globalised treatment recommendations have led to more accurate diagnosis and an earlier start of effective immunomodulatory treatment than previously. Understanding and capturing the long prodromal multiple sclerosis period would further improve diagnostic abilities and thus treatment initiation, eventually improving long-term disease outcomes. The large portfolio of currently available medications paved the way for personalised therapeutic strategies that will balance safety and effectiveness. Incorporation of cognitive interventions, lifestyle recommendations, and management of non-neurological comorbidities could further improve quality of life and outcomes. Future challenges include the development of medications that successfully target the neurodegenerative aspect of the disease and creation of sensitive imaging and fluid biomarkers that can effectively predict and monitor disease changes.

Dance for Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Evidence of the benefits of dance for people with Parkinson disease is well established, but only recently has dance been investigated for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The purpose of this review was to identify and evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of dance interventions to improve functional, psychosocial, and participation outcomes in people with MS.

METHODS

Eight databases and gray literature sources were searched from inception to March 2022. Quantitative, mixed-methods, and qualitative studies evaluating dance interventions for adults with MS were included. Included studies were critically appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and results were analyzed through a parallel-results convergent synthesis.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies were included, with a total of 174 participants. Various dance genres were investigated, and only 1 mild adverse event was reported. Four to 12 weeks of twice-weekly, 60-minute dance sessions were feasible in those with mild to moderate relapsing-remitting MS. Positive effects were identified mainly in motor outcomes, with qualitative themes indicating psychological and social benefits.

CONCLUSIONS

A variety of dance interventions are likely feasible and potentially beneficial for people with mild to moderate relapsing-remitting MS, but studies were generally of low-moderate quality. High-quality studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of dance interventions for people with MS, including those with progressive forms of MS and higher levels of disability.

Multiple Sclerosis-Related Dietary and Nutritional Issues: An Updated Scoping Review with a Focus on Pediatrics

PURPOSE

Lifestyle/dietetic habits play an important role in the development and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS) disease. Here, we examine the basic pathomechanisms underlying intestinal and brain barrier modifications in MS and consider diets and dietary supplementations proposed over time to complement pharmacological therapies for improving disease outcome both in adults and in children.

METHODS

Scoping literature search about evidence-based findings in MS-related gut-brain axis (GBA) pathophysiology and nutritional issues at all ages.

FINDINGS

Data show that (1) no universal best diet exists, (2) healthy/balanced diets are, however, necessary to safeguard the adequate intake of all essential nutrients, (3) diets with high intakes of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins that limit processed foods, sugar, and saturated fat appear beneficial for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to shape a gut microbiota that respects the gut and brain barriers, (4) obesity may trigger MS onset and/or its less favorable course, especially in pediatric-onset MS. Vitamin D and polyunsaturated fatty acids are the most studied supplements for reducing MS-associated inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Pending results from other and/or newer approaches targeting the GBA (e.g., pre- and probiotics, engineered probiotics, fecal-microbiota transplantation), accurate counseling in choosing adequate diet and maintaining physical activity remains recommended for MS prevention and management both in adults and children.

Metabolomic profiles in relapsing-remitting and progressive multiple sclerosis compared to healthy controls: a five-year follow-up study

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system associated with immune dysfunction, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. The disease has heterogeneous clinical phenotypes such as relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS), each with unique pathogenesis. Metabolomics research has shown promise in understanding the etiologies of MS disease. However, there is a paucity of clinical studies with follow-up metabolomics analyses. This 5-year follow-up (5YFU) cohort study aimed to investigate the metabolomics alterations over time between different courses of MS patients and healthy controls and provide insights into metabolic and physiological mechanisms of MS disease progression.

METHODS

A cohort containing 108 MS patients (37 PMS and 71 RRMS) and 42 controls were followed up for a median of 5 years. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was applied for untargeted metabolomics profiling of serum samples of the cohort at both baseline and 5YFU. Univariate analyses with mixed-effect ANCOVA models, clustering, and pathway enrichment analyses were performed to identify patterns of metabolites and pathway changes across the time effects and patient groups.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Out of 592 identified metabolites, the PMS group exhibited the most changes, with 219 (37%) metabolites changed over time and 132 (22%) changed within the RRMS group (Bonferroni adjusted P < 0.05). Compared to the baseline, there were more significant metabolite differences detected between PMS and RRMS classes at 5YFU. Pathway enrichment analysis detected seven pathways perturbed significantly during 5YFU in MS groups compared to controls. PMS showed more pathway changes compared to the RRMS group.

Higher diet quality is associated with short and long-term benefits on SF-6D health state utilities: a 5-year cohort study in an international sample of people with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Health state utilities (HSU) are a subjective measure of an individual's health-related quality of life (HRQoL), adjusted by societal or patient relative preference weights for living in different states of health-related quality of life (HRQoL), derived from patient-reported responses to multi-attribute utility instrument (MAUI), and can be used as inputs for cost-utility analyses and in clinical assessment. This research assessed associations of diet with subsequent HSU in a large international cohort of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive autoimmune condition of the central nervous system.

METHODS

HSUs were generated from responses to Short-Form Six-Dimension (SF-6D) MAUI, and quality-of-the-diet by Diet Habits Questionnaire (DHQ). Cross-sectional, and short- and long-term prospective associations of DHQ with HSU evaluated by linear regression at 2.5- and 5-years. Pooled prospective associations between DHQ and HSU evaluated using linear and quantile regression. Analyses adjusted for relevant demographic and clinical covariates.

RESULTS

Among 839 participants, baseline DHQ scores showed short- and long-term associations with subsequent HSU, each 10-unit increase in total DHQ score associated with 0.008-0.012 higher HSU (out of 1.00). These associations were dose-dependent, those in the top two quartiles of baseline DHQ scores having 0.01-0.03 higher HSU at follow-up, 0.03 being the threshold for a minimally clinically important difference. Fat, fiber, and fruit/vegetable DHQ subscores were most strongly and consistently associated with better HSU outcomes. However, baseline meat and dairy consumption were associated with 0.01-0.02 lower HSU at subsequent follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

A higher quality-of-the-diet showed robust prospective relationships with higher HSUs 2.5- and 5-years later, substantiating previous cross-sectional relationships in this cohort. Subject to replication, these results suggest interventions to improve the quality-of-the-diet may be effective to improve HRQoL in people living with MS.

Communication between persons with multiple sclerosis and their health care providers: A scoping review

OBJECTIVES

This study undertakes a scoping review of research about communication between persons with MS and their health care providers.

DESIGN

PubMed, PsycInfo, Communication Source, Socindex, Sociological Abstracts, Cinahl, and Proquest Dissertations and Theses were used to identify studies since each database's inception. Research team members engaged in study selection, coding for communication issues, and data extraction for descriptive information.

RESULTS

Of the 419 empirical articles identified, 175 were included. Codes represented all elements of ecological and pathway models, emphasizing emerging technologies for facilitating communication, uncertainty and anxiety for persons with MS, and communication issues surrounding diagnosis, information seeking, and decision making.

CONCLUSION

This review synthesizes and organizes influences on communication, communication processes, and health outcomes of communication for persons with MS and their providers. Findings extend the ecological model with illness context and the pathway model with communication breakdowns and provider outcomes.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Health care providers should consider the complexity of communication when interacting with persons with MS, including the larger context in which it occurs, communication processes and their purposes, and short-term and long-term consequences of interactions. Ecological and pathway models can be frameworks for developing educational materials, as they succinctly capture key communication issues and outcomes.

Increased Levels of Beta-Endorphin and Noradrenaline after a Brief High-Impact Multidimensional Rehabilitation Program in Multiple Sclerosis

Finding new solutions for the management of multiple sclerosis (MS) is crucial: further research is needed to study the effect of non-pharmacological interventions on the symptoms and the course of the disease, especially on lifestyle. Benefits from a proper lifestyle are evident not only on a clinical level but also on immune and neuro-endocrine systems. A brief high-impact multidimensional rehabilitation program (b-HIPE) was proposed for a sample of people with MS (pwMS) with a medium level of disease disability. We tested the change on clinical parameters and quality of life (QoL) after participation in B-HIPE. We furthermore decided to measure beta-endorphin and catecholamines concentrations pre- and post-participation in the b-HIPE program, due to the relationship between these hormones and the immune system in neurodegenerative diseases. Our results showed that after the b-HIPE program, an improvement of clinical parameters and QoL occurred. Moreover, we found higher levels of beta-endorphin and noradrenaline after participation in the program. These findings highlight the importance of implementing lifestyle interventions in the clinical management of MS. Furthermore, we hypothesize that the B-HIPE program increased beta-endorphin and noradrenaline levels, helping to reduce the inflammation related to MS disease.

Multiple sclerosis-related fatigue lacks a unified definition: A narrative review

Fatigue is the most common symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS). Although MS-related fatigue (MS-F) strongly affects quality of life and social performance of patients, there is currently a lack of knowledge about its pathophysiology, which in turns leads to poor objective diagnosis and management. Recent studies have attempted to explain potential etiologies as well as treatments for MS-F. However, it seems that without a consensus on its nature, these data could not provide a route to a successful approach. In this Article, we review definitions, epidemiology, risk factors and correlated comorbidities, pathophysiology, assessment methods, neuroimaging findings, and pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments of MS-F. Further studies are warranted to define fatigue in MS patients more accurately, which could result in precise diagnosis and management.

Smouldering multiple sclerosis: the ‘real MS’

Using a philosophical approach or deductive reasoning, we challenge the dominant clinico-radiological worldview that defines multiple sclerosis (MS) as a focal inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). We provide a range of evidence to argue that the ‘real MS’ is in fact driven primarily by a smouldering pathological disease process. In natural history studies and clinical trials, relapses and focal activity revealed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in MS patients on placebo or on disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) were found to be poor predictors of long-term disease evolution and were dissociated from disability outcomes. In addition, the progressive accumulation of disability in MS can occur independently of relapse activity from early in the disease course. This scenario is underpinned by a more diffuse smouldering pathological process that may affect the entire CNS. Many putative pathological drivers of smouldering MS can be potentially modified by specific therapeutic strategies, an approach that may have major implications for the management of MS patients. We hypothesise that therapeutically targeting a state of ‘no evident inflammatory disease activity’ (NEIDA) cannot sufficiently prevent disability accumulation in MS, meaning that treatment should also focus on other brain and spinal cord pathological processes contributing to the slow loss of neurological function. This should also be complemented with a holistic approach to the management of other systemic disease processes that have been shown to worsen MS outcomes.

Demand with low supply: A pipeline for personalized integrative medicine in multiple sclerosis

Timely personalized medicine is an unmet, critical need in multiple sclerosis (MS). A major barrier to providing individualized care is the lack of information on which interventions are most appropriate for whom. In this viewpoint, we submit a rationale and three-step roadmap to personalized integrative medicine. This multidisciplinary team approach requires that we (1) comprehensively assess whole health at diagnosis, (2) appropriately integrate data within electronic health record systems and leverage machine learning to analyze big data, and (3) design, test, and deliver multimodal interventions. Using a whole-person approach to assessment and intervention, we will be better informed to provide personalized care at the level of the individual.

Multiple Sclerosis in Children: Differential Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Disease-Modifying Treatment

Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) is a rare neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disease that has a significant impact on long-term physical and cognitive patient outcomes. A small percentage of multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnoses occur before the age of 18 years. Before treatment initiation, a careful differential diagnosis and exclusion of other similar acquired demyelinating syndromes such as anti-aquaporin-4-associated neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-NMOSD) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody spectrum disorder (MOGSD) is warranted. The recent 2017 changes to the McDonald criteria can successfully predict up to 71% of MS diagnoses and have good specificity of 95% and sensitivity of 71%. Additional measures such as the presence of T1-weighted hypointense lesions and/or contrast-enhancing lesions significantly increase the accuracy of diagnosis. In adults, early use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) is instrumental to a better long-term prognosis, including lower rates of relapse and disability worsening, and numerous FDA-approved therapies for adult-onset MS are available. However, unlike their adult counterparts, the development, testing, and regulatory approval of POMS treatments have been significantly slower and hindered by logistic and/or ethical considerations. Currently, only two MS DMTs (fingolimod and teriflunomide) have been tested in large phase III trials and approved by regulatory agencies for use in POMS. First-line therapies not approved by the FDA for use in children (interferon-β and glatiramer acetate) are also commonly used and result in a significant reduction in inflammatory activity when compared with non-treated POMS patients. An increasing number of POMS patients are now treated with moderate efficacy therapies such as dimethyl fumarate and high-efficacy therapies such as natalizumab, anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, anti-CD52 monoclonal antibodies, and/or autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. These high-efficacy DMTs generally provide additional reduction in inflammatory activity when compared with the first-line medications (up to 62% of relapse-rate reduction). Therefore, a number of phase II and III trials are currently investigating their efficacy and safety in POMS patients. In this review, we discuss potential changes in the regulatory approval process for POMS patients that are recommended for DMTs already approved for the adult MS population, including smaller sample size for pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies, MRI-centered primary outcomes, and/or inclusion of teenagers in the adult trials.

Growth Factors and Their Roles in Multiple Sclerosis Risk

Background

Previous studies have suggested essential roles of growth factors on the risk of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), but it remains undefined whether the effects are causal.

Objective

We applied Mendelian randomization (MR) approaches to disentangle the causal relationship between genetically predicted circulating levels of growth factors and the risk of MS.

Methods

Genetic instrumental variables for fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 23, growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), insulin growth factor 1 (IGF1), insulin-like growth factor binding proteins 3 (IGFBP3) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were obtained from up-to-date genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Summary-level statistics of MS were obtained from the International Multiple Sclerosis Genetics Consortium, incorporating 14,802 subjects with MS and 26,703 healthy controls of European ancestry. Inverse-variance weighted (IVW) MR was used as the primary method and multiple sensitivity analyses were employed in this study.

Results

Genetically predicted circulating levels of FGF23 were associated with risk of MS. The odds ratio (OR) of IVW was 0.63 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49-0.82; p < 0.001) per one standard deviation increase in circulating FGF23 levels. Weighted median estimators also suggested FGF23 associated with lower MS risk (OR = 0.67; 95% CI, 0.51-0.87; p = 0.003). While MR-Egger approach provided no evidence of horizontal pleiotropy (intercept = -0.003, p = 0.95). Results of IVW methods provided no evidence for causal roles of GDF1, IGF1, IGFBP3 and VEGF on MS risks, and additional sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these null findings.

Conclusion

Our results implied a causal relationship between FGF23 and the risk of MS. Further studies are warranted to confirm FGF23 as a genetically valid target for MS.

Widespread Disruptions of White Matter in Familial Multiple Sclerosis: DTI and NODDI Study

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a noninvasive, quantitative MRI technique that measures white matter (WM) integrity. Many brain dimensions are heritable, including white matter integrity measured with DTI. Family studies are valuable to provide insights into the interactive effects of non-environmental factors on multiple sclerosis (MS). To examine the contribution of familial factors to the diffusion signals across WM microstructure, we performed DTI and calculated neurite orientation dispersion plus density imaging (NODDI) diffusion parameters in two patient groups comprising familial and sporadic forms of multiple sclerosis and their unaffected relatives. We divided 111 subjects (49 men and 62 women: age range 19-60) into three groups conforming to their MS history. The familial MS group included 30 participants (patients; n = 16, healthy relatives; n = 14). The sporadic group included 41 participants (patients; n = 10, healthy relatives; n = 31). Forty age-matched subjects with no history of MS in their families were defined as the control group. To study white matter integrity, two methods were employed: one for calculating the mean of DTI, FA, and MD parameters on 18 tracts using Tracts Constrained by Underlying Anatomy (TRACULA) and the other for whole brain voxel-based analysis using tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) on NDI and ODI parameters derived from NODDI and DTI parameters. Voxel-based analysis showed considerable changes in FA, MD, NDI, and ODI in the familial group when compared with the control group, reflecting widespread impairment of white matter in this group. The analysis of 18 tracts with TRACULA revealed increased MD and FA reduction in more tracts (left and right ILF, UNC, and SLFT, forceps major and minor) in familial MS patients vs. the control group. There were no significant differences between the patient groups. We found no consequential changes in healthy relatives of both patient groups in voxel-based and tract analyses. Considering the multifactorial etiology of MS, familial studies are of great importance to clarify the effects of certain predisposing factors on demyelinating brain pathology.

Managing chronic disease in the COVID-19 pandemic: an e-learning application to promote a healthy lifestyle for persons with multiple sclerosis

E-health applications can support continuing care for persons with chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). We have developed a web-based mobile app called VIOLA to be used at home by persons with MS (pwMS) who previously participated in an innovative multidisciplinary rehab program. The purpose of VIOLA is to reinforce what participants have learned about a healthy lifestyle and to keep them motivated to adhere to rehabilitation programs. As the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic has severely curtailed pwMS contact with their usual health providers, we quickly updated VIOLA to grant continuity of care to our home-bound patients.By monitoring pwMS subscriptions to individual modules, we found a definite increase after the national lockdown was declared. Subscribers rated the app very positively.Encouraged by the positive feedbacks, we are planning to extend the access to our app also to pwMS with no prior specific learning experience. This would limit the psychophysical consequences of the lockdown. Furthermore, VIOLA could be effective in maintaining a proper lifestyle, contributing to improve the quality of life of pwMS.VIOLA has the potential of increasing the adherence of pwMS to the rehabilitation confirming that digital communication tools are a valuable solution for those home-bound.].

Circulating Interleukins and Risk of Multiple Sclerosis: A Mendelian Randomization Study

Background

Previous research have implicated critical roles of systemic inflammation in the development of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). But the causal relationship between interleukins (ILs) and MS has not been fully elucidated.

Objective

In this study, we applied Mendelian randomization (MR) approaches to address the causal associations between genetically determined circulating levels of ILs and the risk of MS.

Methods

Genetic instruments for circulating IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), IL-2 receptor α subunit (IL-2Rα), IL-6, IL-16, IL-17, and IL-18 were obtained from recently published genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Summary-level data for MS were obtained from the International Multiple Sclerosis Genetics Consortium. MR analyses were performed using the R software (version 3.6.1, The R Foundation) and the TwoSampleMR package.

Results

Genetic predisposition to higher circulating levels of IL-2Rα were significantly associated with MS risk. The odds ratio (OR) was 1.22 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12-1.32; p < 0.001) per one standard deviation increase in circulating IL-2Rα levels. There was a suggestive association of circulating IL-1Ra with MS risk (OR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.88-0.99; p = 0.027). The other ILs were not associated with the outcome.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that circulating IL-2Rα was causally associated with risk of MS.

Association of Fatigue Severity With Maladaptive Coping in Multiple Sclerosis: A Data-Driven Psychodynamic Perspective

Fatigue in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) is severely disabling. However, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Recent research suggests a link to early childhood adversities and psychological trait variables. In line with these studies, this paper took a psychodynamic perspective on MS-fatigue. It was hypothesized that fatigue could represent a manifestation of maladaptive coping with intense emotions. The schema therapeutic mode model served as a theoretical and empirically validated framework, linking psychodynamic theory and empirical research methods. The study was based on a data set of N = 571 PwMS that has also served as the basis for another publication. Data was collected online. The Schema Mode Inventory was used to quantify regulatory strategies to cope with emotionally stressful experiences. In addition, depressive symptoms (Beck's Depression Inventory - FastScreen), physical disability (Patient Determined Disease Steps), alexithymia (Toronto Alexithymia Scale-26), adverse childhood experiences (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire), and self-reported fatigue (Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions) were assessed. Latent profile analysis revealed three distinct groups of PwMS, based on their coping mode profiles: (1) PwMS with low maladaptive coping, (2) PwMS with avoidant/submissive coping styles, and (3) PwMS with avoidant/overcompensatory coping styles. Multivariate comparisons showed no significant difference in physical disability across the three groups. However, heightened levels of self-reported fatigue and depression symptoms occurred in PwMS with maladaptive coping styles. A path model uncovered that self-reported fatigue was robustly related to physical disability (β = 0.33) and detached/avoidant coping (Detached Protector; β = 0.34). There was no specific relation between any of the maladaptive coping modes and depression symptoms. Detached/avoidant coping was in turn predicted by childhood emotional abuse and neglect. The results indicate that childhood adversity and detached/avoidant coping styles may be associated with variability in MS-fatigue severity: PwMS that resort to detached/avoidant coping in response to negative emotions also tend to report heightened levels of fatigue, although they do not differ in their perceived disability from PwMS with low levels of fatigue and maladaptive coping. A link between MS-fatigue and the psychodynamic traumatic conversion model is discussed. The implications of these findings for therapeutic interventions require further study.

The Nerves to Conduct a Multiple Sclerosis Crime Investigation

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory neurodegenerative autoimmune disease characterized by the aberrant infiltration of immune cells into the central nervous system (CNS) and by the loss of myelin. Sclerotic lesions and various inhibitory factors hamper the remyelination processes within the CNS. MS patients typically experience gradual cognitive and physical disabilities as the disease progresses. The etiology of MS is still unclear and emerging evidence suggests that microbiome composition could play a much more significant role in disease pathogenesis than was initially thought. Initially believed to be isolated to the gut microenvironment, we now know that the microbiome plays a much broader role in various tissues and is essential in the development of the immune system. Here, we present some of the unexpected roles that the microbiome plays in MS and discuss approaches for the development of next-generation treatment strategies.

Considering patient age when treating multiple sclerosis across the adult lifespan

Introduction: The successful development of anti-inflammatory disease-modifying treatments (DMT) significantly improved disease outcomes and longevity of persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). However, the shift toward an elderly MS population has resulted with new concerns regarding DMT efficacy and safety.Areas covered: This review summarizes the evidence of an age-based decrease in the efficacy of MS DMTs and increase in pharmacovigilance concerns. The age effects on pathophysiological MS processes, immunosenescence and its relevance to DMT selection or discontinuation are also reviewed. Lastly, the authors discuss the influence of age-associated comorbidities on DMT initiation and drug-induced events.Expert opinion: There is an age discrepancy between pwMS included in regulatory drug trials and an aging real-world MS population. Most trials demonstrate significantly diminished anti-inflammatory efficacy in patients older than 40 years old. Older age is associated with a greater risk for adverse events including serious infections. Age-associated comorbidities influence the risk-benefit analysis and sometimes cause patients to discontinue DMTs. Instead of chronological age cutoffs, therefore, studies should aim at promoting biologically-based age biomarkers.

Prevalence and patterns of subclinical motor and cognitive impairments in non-disabled individuals with early multiple sclerosis: a multicenter cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Motor and cognitive disorders appear early in the course of multiple sclerosis (MS) and develop gradually over time.

OBJECTIVE

To study the frequency and pattern of subtle functional disorders in people with MS (PwMS) with no overt signs of disability in an early phase of the disease and their association with walking impairments in daily activities.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we recruited PwMS with an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score ≤ 2.5 and disease duration ≤ 5 years. Participants were assessed with functional scales rating walking endurance (6-Min Walk Test), perceived walking ability (Twelve-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale), balance (Fullerton Advanced Balance scale_short), manual dexterity (Nine Hole Peg Test), fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale), and cognitive impairments (Brief International Cognitive Assessment).

RESULTS

About 90% of the 82 PwMS (mean [SD] EDSS score 1.5 [0.7] and disease duration 2.2 [1.7] years) showed endurance values below the expected score; almost 30% showed impairment, and for 57%, perceived walking ability score was abnormal. Balance was impaired in 48% of participants, as was manual dexterity (29%) and fatigue (24%), but only a few showed cognitive impairments. Only 11% of PwMS had no abnormal score on the scales used in the assessment. As compared with EDSS score 0 to 1.5, with EDSS score 2 to 2.5, performance was worse for endurance (difference ±61.0 m, p=0.016), perceived walking ability (-11 points, p=0.002), balance (+1.9 points, p=0.005), manual dexterity (-2.8 sec, p=0.004), and fatigue (-1.3 points, p=0.013). Factors that predicted perceived walking ability were balance (B = -1.37, p<0.001) and fatigue (B = 5.11, p<0.001) rather than endurance (B = -0.01, p=048).

CONCLUSION

Even PwMS with no clinical disability and classified as having "no problem walking" present walking and other functional deficits when assessed with specific functional tests. The addition of specific tools could better identify subtle motor and cognitive deficits. Finally, the assessment of balance disorders and fatigue is important to understand individuals' perceived walking impairments in daily activities.

Prevalence of seropositivity of selected herpesviruses in patients with multiple sclerosis in the North of Jordan

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease that is caused by an autoimmune response that results in the neuron’s demyelination in the central nervous system. The exact etiology of MS is not clear; however, several environmental and genetic factors are believed to participate in its initiation and development, including exposure to viruses. This study aims to investigate the association between the seropositivity and antibody titer of selected herpesviruses and MS in Jordanian MS patients.

Method

In this study, 55 MS patients and 40 age- and gender-matching apparently healthy volunteers were recruited from two main hospitals in the north of Jordan. MS patients were grouped into three types of MS based on the clinical presentation of the disease. Blood samples were collected from the participants and the IgG antibodies for human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) nuclear antigen (EBNA), EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) were assayed by ELISA. The prevalence of seropositivity and the antibody level for each of the antibodies were compared between MS patients and controls and between the three types of MS.

Results

There was no significant difference in the prevalence of seropositivity and in the levels of antibodies for HHV-6, EBNA and VCA between MS patients and controls and between the three types of MS. In contrast, the number of seropositive patients and the level of IgG antibodies for VZV were significantly higher in MS patients compared to the control.

Conclusion

This study showed that patients with MS in the north of Jordan were more likely to be seropositive for VZV than the general population. Based on this finding, we recommend further studies to evaluate the seropositivity to VZV to be carried out in other parts of Jordan and the greater middle east to find out if there is a correlation between MS and previous infection with VZV.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-020-01977-w.

Long-term drug treatment in multiple sclerosis: safety success and concerns

INTRODUCTION

The portfolio of multiple sclerosis (MS) disease modifying treatments (DMTs) has significantly expanded over the past two decades. Given the lifelong use of MS pharmacotherapy, understanding their long-term safety profiles is essential in determining suitable and personalized treatment.

AREAS COVERED

In this narrative review, we summarize the short-, mid-, and long-term safety profile of currently available MS DMTs categories. In addition to the initial trial findings, safety outcomes derived from long-term extension studies (≥5-20 years) and safety-based prescription programs have been reviewed. In order to better understand the risk-benefit ratio for each particular DMT group, a short description of the DMT-based efficacy outcomes has been included.

EXPERT OPINION

Long-term extension trials, large observational studies and real-world databases allow detection of rare and potentially serious adverse events. Two-year-long trials are unable to fully capture the positive and negative effects of immune system modulation and reconstitution. DMT-based monitoring programs can provide greater insights regarding safe use of MS medications in different patient populations and clinical settings. During the process of shared DMT decision, both MS care providers and their patients should be aware of an ever-expanding number of drug-based adverse events and their influence on the risk-benefit analysis.

Cortical and Deep Gray Matter Perfusion Associations With Physical and Cognitive Performance in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Background: Reports suggest presence of cerebral hypoperfusion in multiple sclerosis (MS). Currently there are no studies that examine if the cerebral MS perfusion is affected by presence of cardiovascular comorbidities. Objective: To investigate associations between cerebral perfusion and disease outcomes in MS patients with and without comorbid cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Materials: One hundred three MS patients (75.7% female) with average age of 54.4 years and 21.1 years of disease duration underwent 3T MRI dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) imaging and were tested with Expanded Disability Status Scale, Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS), Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FW), 9-Hole Peg Test (9HPT) and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT). Structural and perfusion-based normalized measures of cerebral blood flow (nCBF), cerebral blood volume (nCBV) and mean transit time (MTT) of global, tissue-specific and deep gray matter (DGM) areas were derived. CBV and CBF were normalized by the normal-appearing white matter counterpart. Results: In linear step-wise regression analysis, age- and sex-adjusted, MSSS (R ² = 0.186) was associated with whole brain volume (WBV) (β = -0.244, p = 0.046) and gray matter (GM) nCBF (β = -0.22, p = 0.035). T25FW (R ² = 0.278) was associated with WBV (β = -0.289, p = 0.012) and hippocampus nCBV (β = -0.225, p = 0.03). 9HPT (R ² = 0.401) was associated with WBV (β = 0.195, p = 0.049) and thalamus MTT (β = -0.198, p=0.032). After adjustment for years of education, SDMT (R ² = 0.412) was explained by T2-lesion volume (β = -0.305, p = 0.001), and GM nCBV (β = 0.236, p = 0.013). No differences in MTT, nCBF nor nCBV measures between patients with (n = 42) and without CVD (n = 61) were found. Perfusion-measures were also not able to distinguish CVD status in a logistic regression model. Conclusion: Decreased GM and deep GM perfusion is associated with poorer MS outcomes, but not with presence of CVD.

SeXX Matters in Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS). An interesting feature that this debilitating disease shares with many other inflammatory disorders is that susceptibility is higher in females than in males, with the risk of MS being three times higher in women compared to men. Nonetheless, while men have a decreased risk of developing MS, many studies suggest that males have a worse clinical outcome. MS exhibits an apparent sexual dimorphism in both the immune response and the pathophysiology of the CNS damage, ultimately affecting disease susceptibility and progression differently. Overall, women are predisposed to higher rates of inflammatory relapses than men, but men are more likely to manifest signs of disease progression and worse CNS damage. The observed sexual dimorphism in MS may be due to sex hormones and sex chromosomes, acting in parallel or combination. In this review, we outline current knowledge on the sexual dimorphism in MS and discuss the interplay of sex chromosomes, sex hormones, and the immune system in driving MS disease susceptibility and progression.

Coffee consumption is not associated with risk of multiple sclerosis: A Mendelian randomization study

OBJECTIVE

. Coffee consumption has been suggested to decrease the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). In this study, we aim to investigate the causal effect of coffee consumption on risk of MS by Mendelian randomization (MR) approaches.

METHODS

. Through a genome-wide association study including 375,833 participants from UK Biobank, we obtained single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with habitual coffee consumption (P < 5 × 10^-8). Summary-level data for MS were obtained from a meta-analysis, incorporating 14,802 subjects with MS and 26,703 healthy controls of European ancestry, which was conducted by the International Multiple Sclerosis Genetics Consortium. MR analyses were performed using inverse-variance-weighted method, weighted median estimator, and MR-Egger regression. Additional analyses were further performed using MR-Egger intercept and Cochran's Q statistic to verify the robustness of our findings.

RESULTS

. Nine coffee-associated SNPs were selected as instrumental variables. We failed to detect a causal effect of coffee consumption on MS risk (odds ratio, 1,00; 95% confidence interval, 0.98-1.01; P = 0.48). In the main MR analysis. Consistent results were yielded in sensitivity analyses using the weighted median and MR-Egger methods, and no horizontal pleiotropy (P = 0.49) was identified.

CONCLUSION

. Our MR results indicated that coffee consumption might not be causally associated with risk of MS occurrence. Further well-designed genetic-epidemiological studies investigating the effect of coffee intake on the disease course, such as relapse and progression, are warranted.

Tonsillectomy in multiple sclerosis patients: Retrospective, case-controlled, exploratory study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown an effect of tonsillectomy and greater risk for future autoimmune diseases. Currently there are only few outdated analyses of tonsillectomy and multiple sclerosis (MS) risk.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of tonsillectomy in MS patients and healthy controls (HCs).

METHODS

A total of 1000 subjects (779 MS patients and 221 HCs) completed a structured study questionnaire regarding MS diagnosis, age of onset, history of tonsillectomy, and age of tonsillectomy. In a subgroup of patients with available electronic medical records, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores at the time of recruitment and 5-years later were collected. Statistical analyses were performed with χ² test, odds ratio (OR), Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and ordinal regression..

RESULTS

The MS population had a greater percentage of patients with history of tonsillectomy when compared to HCs [39.5% vs. 31.7%, OR 1.411 (CI 1.027-1.938), p = 0.034], driven by participants aged 50 or older [45.7% vs. 36.1%, OR 1.495 (CI 1.037-2.155) p = 0.031]. There was no difference of the age at tonsillectomy (median 8.0 vs. 6.5 years old, p = 0.26). However, the RRMS patients had their tonsillectomy procedure performed significantly later when compared to HCs (median 6.5 vs. 9.0 years old, p = 0.049). In an analysis of RRMS patients with available longitudinal data (n = 459), patients with a history of tonsillectomy were significantly older and had a longer disease duration (p < 0.001 and p = 0.025). After adjusting for the demographic differences, no history of tonsillectomy remained significant predictor of lower EDSS score categories both at the first (estimate = -0.467, Wald = 6.68, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.11, p = 0.01) and second timepoint (estimate = -0.376, Wald = 4.4, 95% CI -0.73 to -0.02 p = 0.037).

CONCLUSION

When compared to HCs, a greater percentage of MS patients underwent tonsillectomy. The role of tonsils, its relationship with early infection rates and/or antibiotic use in MS should be further investigated.

The impact of modifiable risk factors on lesion burden in patients with early multiple sclerosis

INTRODUCTION

Some studies have indicated the importance of considering smoking, vitamin D deficiency and obesity as negative prognostic factors for clinical and MRI outcomes in multiple sclerosis (MS). This study aimed to evaluate the possible effects of these modifiable risk factors on brain MRI lesion burden of patients with early MS, also exploring the influence on initial clinical features.

METHODS

MS patients were enrolled at diagnosis time and examined for smoking, body mass index (BMI), serum level of lipids and 25(OH) vitamin D. Brain MRIs' were acquired and lesion volume assessed by Jim software. Clinical data (disease course, disease duration, and EDSS score) were also collected.

RESULTS

64 patients were enrolled, of these 4 (6.2%) had a primary progressive course. Mean age was 39.8 ± 11.1 years and mean EDSS 1.5 ± 1.1. Forty (62.5%) patients were smokers and 40 (62.5%) were overweight (BMI>25). Insufficient levels of vitamin D (<20 ng/mL) were reported in 36 (56.2%) patients, while 24 (37.5%) patients had an altered lipid profile with total cholesterol >200 mg/dl and LDL >100 mg/dl. No association between early clinical features and modifiable risk factors were reported. Multiple regression analysis showed an association between lesion burden and smoking status (p 0.003), while no association was reported with BMI, altered lipid profile and vitamin D insufficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Several risk factors may play a role in evolution of MS. Our results show that smoking status, probably due to chronic vascular and neurotoxic effects of the cigarette components, can affect the brain damage from the early stages of MS. No association was observed with the other explored modifiable risk factors, although an effect due to the small sample size cannot be excluded.

Infections, Vaccines and Autoimmunity: A Multiple Sclerosis Perspective

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disease that is associated with multiple environmental factors. Among suspected susceptibility events, studies have questioned the potential role of overt viral and bacterial infections, including the Epstein Bar virus (EBV) and human endogenous retroviruses (HERV). Furthermore, the fast development of immunomodulatory therapies further questions the efficacy of the standard immunization policies in MS patients. Topics reviewed: This narrative review will discuss the potential interplay between viral and bacterial infections and their treatment on MS susceptibility and disease progression. In addition, the review specifically discusses the interactions between MS pathophysiology and vaccination for hepatitis B, influenza, human papillomavirus, diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DTP), and Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG). Data regarding potential interaction between MS disease modifying treatment (DMT) and vaccine effectiveness is also reviewed. Moreover, HERV-targeted therapies such as GNbAC1 (temelimab), EBV-based vaccines for treatment of MS, and the current state regarding the development of T-cell and DNA vaccination are discussed. Lastly, a reviewing commentary on the recent 2019 American Academy of Neurology (AAN) practice recommendations regarding immunization and vaccine-preventable infections in the settings of MS is provided. Conclusion: There is currently no sufficient evidence to support associations between standard vaccination policies and increased risk of MS. MS patients treated with immunomodulatory therapies may have a lower benefit from viral and bacterial vaccination. Despite their historical underperformance, new efforts in creating MS-based vaccines are currently ongoing. MS vaccination programs follow the set back and slow recovery which is widely seen in other fields of medicine.

The FTO gene polymorphism rs9939609 is associated with obesity and disability in multiple sclerosis patients

Obesity is a well-known risk factor for multiple diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS). Polymorphisms in the fat-mass obesity (FTO) gene have been consistently found to be associated with obesity, and recently found to increase the risk of developing MS. We therefore assessed the common FTO gene polymorphism (rs9939609) in relation to obesity, risk of developing MS and its disability in a cohort of MS patients. A cohort of 200 MS patients (135 females and 65 males) were genotyped for the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism. Using both logistic and linear regression we assessed the relationship between the variant and the selected phenotypes under both an additive and recessive genetic models. The A-allele was found to be associated with being overweight/obese in MS patients (OR = 2.48 (95% CI 1.17–5.29); p = 0.01). In addition, The A-allele was also found to be associated with increased MS disability (β = 0.48 (95% CI 0.03–0.92); p = 0.03). However, no association was found with risk of developing MS (p > 0.05). Moreover, our association with obesity is consistent with previous reports, whereas the association with disability is novel and warrants further investigation on the role of FTO in disease progression.