Published on: December 18, 2024
Why to study Multiple Sclerosis?
Among all the possible paths to follow in science, across the vast universe of questions and unknowns, disease remains a topic that resonates deeply with everyone: How can we avoid disease? How can we treat it? How can we cure it? But these questions lead to a deeper one: Why should we stay healthy in the first place? The answer may seem as simple as: “To help others and ourselves under the best possible conditions.” Disease diminishes quality of life and, ultimately, may lead to death, which is inevitable. However, what we do in life is what truly matters. The better our health, the more we can enjoy life, improve it, and help others do the same. So, whenever someone asks me: “Why do you study this disease and not another topic?” my answer is simple: “Because I want to improve people’s lives.”
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system—our body’s protector—attacks itself, specifically targeting myelin, a crucial component for the proper function of neurons. Without intact myelin, nerves lose their insulating “sheath,” causing the “cables” or axons of neurons to struggle with conducting information. As a result, the primary symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis are linked to the Central Nervous System and include, but are not limited to, vision loss, muscle weakness, numbness in parts of the body, and difficulty walking, among many others.
The Cause: Genetics and Environment
The exact cause of this disease remains unknown, as do many of the processes that drive its onset. These processes are referred to as pathogenesis—from the Greek pathos (disease) and genesis (creation). Two key factors contribute to the pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis: Genetics and Environment. Together, nature and environment shape everything that happens to us. My work focuses on untangling this puzzle: the interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.
Understanding Complexity
A common misconception is that genetics is deterministic—that it is unchangeable and that if you inherit the “genes” for a disease, “oh, you’re in trouble.” However, nature is far more complex. While some rare diseases are driven by single-gene mutations, the majority of genetically associated diseases involve intricate, multi-layered mechanisms that require considerable effort to understand. Environmental factors exhibit similar complexity.
By investigating how genetics and environment contribute to the pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis, we gain valuable insights into the precise mechanisms necessary for the disease to occur. This understanding can help scientists develop targeted strategies to block these steps and, hopefully, prevent the disease.
Connections to Other Autoimmune Diseases
Remarkably, Multiple Sclerosis shares significant similarities with other autoimmune diseases, such as Celiac Disease, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. These diseases share common genetic backgrounds, critical environmental influences, and overlapping pathogenic processes. As a result, any knowledge gained from studying one of these diseases can provide valuable insights into understanding another.
Why to study Multiple Sclerosis? Because I want to improve people’s lives—especially those suffering from autoimmune diseases.