MS Research Roundup: December 2025
The multiple sclerosis research published in December 2025, explained in plain language. Studies are listed by how much they matter to people living with MS, most first.
The month at a glance
- 12 studies published this month.
- Newest study published December 25, 2025.
- 4 in people, 4 in the lab or in animals, 3 reviews of earlier research.
- Largest study: 8,428 people.
- Research from 27 institutions in 11 countries, including Affiliated Hospital Group of Guangdong Medical University, Flinders University and Guangdong Medical University.
- Forms of MS studied: relapsing-remitting (1), secondary progressive (1).
- Symptoms studied: difficulty walking (1), thinking problems (1).
Studies published in December 2025
Blood Test Plus MRI May Better Predict New MS Lesions
A study of people with MS found that a blood test plus MRI identified two disease patterns. One pattern was linked to a higher chance of new lesions over time.
Virtual rehab may aid movement in MS and other diseases
A review of 99 studies found virtual reality rehab may improve movement, thinking, and quality of life across conditions including MS. MS-only results were not given.
Modified immune cells show early signs of benefit for MS
A review of modified immune cell treatment for MS describes early signs of benefit. Lasting effects, treatment risks, and costs remain uncertain.
MS and other conditions: Insurance rules linked to delays
A review of 20 studies on MS and other brain conditions found that insurance drug approval rules were often linked to care delays and extra work for staff.
Spinal fluid study maps changes linked to MS disability
In a study of 438 people with and without MS, spinal fluid changes were linked to disability and brain scan findings. Patterns also differed by sex over time.
Lower brain activity in one area linked to MS risk
A study of genetic and brain scan data linked lower activity in one brain area to higher MS risk. It did not test a treatment or show how to prevent MS.
In mice, an antibody reduced MS-like disease severity
In mice with an MS-like disease, a modified antibody reduced disease severity and helped recovery. Researchers also tested antibodies from an MS look-alike.
New MS cases stayed steady as infections fell in Japan
A study of health records in Japan found that new MS cases stayed steady after pandemic measures reduced infections, while some other diseases showed drops.
In an MS-related experiment, oxygen cut lasting damage
An experimental nervous system injury caused lasting tissue loss and disability. Nimodipine or extra oxygen reduced both. The study did not directly test MS.
In mice, clobetasol repaired MS-like damage from chemo
In mice, a cancer drug caused MS-like nerve damage. Clobetasol helped repair lasting damage in adult mice. The study did not test people with MS or cancer.
New lab method maps immune cells in mice with MS-like disease
A new method found signals that shape immune cells in mice with an MS-like disease. Researchers also found similar cell patterns in data from people with MS.
In mice, brain immune cells differed as MS worsened with age
A mouse study linked age-related changes in brain immune cells with severe, lasting MS-like disease. It did not test a treatment or study people with MS.
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