Blocking a DNA-cutting protein may protect nerve cells in MS

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Key Takeaway

A specific type of cell death called parthanatos, driven by the protein MIF cutting DNA, causes neurons to die during autoimmune brain inflammation and blocking this step can protect nerve cells.

What They Found

In a mouse model of autoimmune brain inflammation similar to MS, neurons showed more DNA damage and were lost over time. The pattern inside dying neurons matched a form of cell death called parthanatos, which does not use the usual “self-destruct” enzymes but is triggered by too much DNA damage. The final step of this process is that a protein called MIF acts like a pair of scissors (a nuclease) and chops up the neuron’s DNA, which finishes the cell’s death. When researchers genetically removed MIF’s cutting ability or used a drug to block it, fewer neurons died and the mice had milder disease. Neurons that could not be cut by MIF responded differently at the gene level, showing that stopping MIF changes how neurons handle inflammation.

Who Should Care and Why

People with MS and their caregivers should care because protecting neurons matters for long-term function like walking, thinking, and vision — think of it as trying to stop the wires in your house from being permanently damaged. Neurologists and MS researchers should care because this study points to a new target (MIF’s nuclease activity) for treatments aimed at preventing nerve cell loss rather than only stopping relapses. Patients using current MS drugs that control relapses might still have unseen neuron damage; a treatment that blocks parthanatos could add a layer of protection, like adding surge protectors to reduce hidden electrical damage. Caregivers might notice that preserving neurons could slow progression of disability, which affects daily routines and independence. People interested in clinical trials should watch for therapies that block MIF or parthanatos, since these could one day become add-ons to existing MS treatments.

Important Considerations

This study was done in mice using a model of autoimmune inflammation, not directly in people with MS, so results may not fully match human disease. Blocking MIF’s nuclease helped in the model, but we don’t yet know the safety, best dose, or long-term effects of doing this in humans. Also, MS is complex and parthanatos is likely one of several ways neurons die, so blocking it may help but probably won’t be a complete cure on its own.

Categories:

Early Research MS Progression MS Genetics

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or are seeking to broaden your understanding of this complex, neurodegenerative disease, navigating the latest research can feel overwhelming. Studies published in respected medical journals like Nature neuroscience often range from early-stage, exploratory work to advanced clinical trials. These evidence-based findings help shape new disease-modifying therapies, guide symptom management techniques, and deepen our knowledge of MS progression.

However, not all research is created equal. Some clinical research studies may have smaller sample sizes, evolving methodologies, or limitations that warrant careful interpretation. For a more comprehensive, accurate understanding, we recommend reviewing the original source material—accessible via the More Details section above—and consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in MS care.

By presenting a wide range of MS-focused studies—spanning cutting-edge treatments, emerging therapies, and established best practices—we aim to empower patients, caregivers, and clinicians to stay informed and make well-informed decisions when managing Multiple Sclerosis.

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