The gut–brain axis in multiple sclerosis is an exciting field of research that connects the gut microbiome, immune system and central nervous system. In this interview, Prof. Dr. Anne-Katrin Pröbstel explains how B cells, especially IgA-producing B cells, may influence inflammation in MS and why not all immune cells are harmful. She also discusses what current research can and cannot yet tell us about diet, vitamin D, smoking and future treatment approaches.

You can find the interview to read here: https://ms-perspektive.de/en/171-proebstel/

You'll learn:

• What the gut–brain axis means in multiple sclerosis.
• How B cells and IgA may be involved in MS.
• Why the gut microbiome is important for MS research.
• What role diet, fiber, vitamin D and smoking may play.
• Why much of this work is still basic research.
• How future therapies may become more targeted.

Resources mentioned:

• www.proebstellab.com
• German Multiple Sclerosis Society
• Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Society
• National MS Society
• UKB NewsRoom - Bonn, Germany

Is there anything you would like listeners to take away?

Dr. Anne-Katrin Pröbstel: The audience is probably very diverse. Some listeners may live with MS themselves, others may be relatives, caregivers or professionals interested in the topic.

What I would like to say is this: I have great respect for people living with MS and for the way they deal with this disease. At the same time, I believe that scientific progress can offer hope.

Many physicians and researchers are working to better understand MS and to develop improved therapies. Progress is not always fast, but it is moving forward step by step.

I would like to encourage people affected by MS to stay hopeful.

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See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele

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