By Nele Handwerker
The podcast currently has 90 episodes available.
Andreas Lutterotti explains the mode of action, the concept of the early clinical trial RED4MS, and what a success could mean for patients.
You can read through all questions and answers on my blog: https://ms-perspektive.com/88-red4ms
Multiple sclerosis is one of the absolute success stories in terms of disease-modifying therapy. Nevertheless, the search for new concepts continues and the RED4MS study is looking in a new direction. Neurologist Dr. Andreas Lutterotti and his colleagues are researching and developing a novel approach to retraining the immune system. Find out more about the RED4MS study and how this therapy aims to reduce the symptoms of MS while maintaining normal immune function, offering hope for more targeted and safer treatment.
Dr. Lutterotti provides insights into the study's objectives, patient eligibility, and what participants can expect. This early study is initially concerned with exploring the safety of the therapy. Only in the second step will the right dose be found that hits the sweet spot between efficacy and tolerability. Find out more about the possible effects of the therapy on daily life, the strict safety measures, and what might happen if the results are positive.
Table of ContentsI’m Andreas Lutterotti, originally from Austria, now living in Switzerland. I’m a neurologist with a focus on MS and a Chief Medical Officer at Cellaris AG. I’m married, have three children, and enjoy biking and traveling with my family.
Finally, what message of hope or encouragement would you like to share with the listeners?Treatment development in MS has been very successful in a relatively short period of time. With more focus neuroprotective/-regenerative therapies and improvement of symptoms like fatigue we will hopefully improve the life of patients with MS in the future.
How and where can interested people follow your research activities?www.cellerys.com
www.clinicaltrials.gov (contains a list of participating centers)
The following countries participate in the trial:
Good luck with the clinical trial. Sounds like a promising mode of action.
See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
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Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) need to be diagnosed and treated fast with highly effective therapies for a good prognosis.
You can read the transcript of the interview here: https://ms-perspektive.com/87-luis-alfonso-zarco
Living with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) can be challenging. But the more you understand about the condition and the latest research and treatment options, the better off you’ll be. In this interview, Professor Luis Alfonso Zarco, a leading neurologist from Colombia who specializes in NMOSD, shares insights into the symptoms, treatments, and advances in care for this rare autoimmune disease. Whether you have just been diagnosed or have been living with NMOSD for years, this conversation will give you a deep dive into the fundamentals of NMOSD care, from early recognition to personalized treatment options. Learn why timely intervention is important, how NMOSD differs from multiple sclerosis, and what the future may hold for NMOSD patients.
Table of ContentsI’m Luis Alfonso Zarco, born in Barranquilla on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. I studied medicine at Universidad del Norte in Barranquilla and later specialized in neurology at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá. I also trained as a neuroimmunologist at Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, and I’m currently a candidate for a Master’s degree in Multiple Sclerosis from Dresden International University and a fellow of the European Charcot Foundation. Currently, I’m based in Bogotá, where I work at Hospital Universitario San Ignacio and serve as a neurology professor at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. As director of the Neuroscience Department, I oversee cases of high complexity. I’m married to Angelica Rico, a nurse specializing in occupational health, and we have two children: Maria Paula, a lawyer, and Luis Carlos, studying finance. I’m passionate about my work, especially caring for patients with demyelinating diseases like NMOSD. This work is meaningful because these conditions affect people’s quality of life, their aspirations, and dreams, and we can play a key role in helping them achieve their goals.
Finally, what message of hope or encouragement would you like to share with individuals living with NMOSD? You’re not alone. Many professionals worldwide are dedicated to finding new treatments and improving your quality of life. Stay strong, and remember, support is always available. How and where can interested people follow your research activities?Prof. Luis Alfonso Zarco: You can follow me on Instagram at @dr_zarco.
---Nele von Horsten: Thank you for sharing your insights on NMOSD, for your research, and for your dedication to patient care. Greetings to Colombia, and I hope to see you at a future ECTRIMS conference.
Prof. Luis Alfonso Zarco: Thank you, Nele. It’s been a pleasure.
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See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.
Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
Find out how the menopause affects MS. What new research reveals about progression, symptom management, biological aging and quality of life.
You can read the full article here: https://ms-perspektive.com/86-ectrims-menopause
If you’re living with MS and approaching menopause, you might wonder how this life stage could impact your MS journey. Menopause is already a significant transition, bringing physical, emotional, and social changes. When combined with MS, it can feel even more complex, and many women have questions about how menopause might influence their symptoms, progression, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, new research is beginning to address these unique challenges, offering insights that could help guide care and support.
In this summary, we’ll dive into several recent studies that explore different aspects of menopause and MS. From understanding if menopause affects disability levels and relapse rates, to investigating how menopause might influence biological aging in women with MS, these studies provide valuable findings. Notably, one project led by Queen Mary University in the UK took an innovative approach by involving women with MS in designing the research itself, making the results especially relevant to real-world experiences.
Together, these studies offer a clearer picture of what menopause might mean for women with MS, and we’ll break down the key findings to help you understand what to expect and how this research might apply to your own journey.
Table of ContentsIf you have questions about how menopause might affect your MS, talk to your healthcare provider about any changes or symptoms you’re experiencing. They can help interpret new findings and offer guidance that’s tailored to your unique journey, supporting you in managing symptoms and maintaining your quality of life through this transition.
---See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
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Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
New approaches to MS Rehabilitation: From Telerehab to Ocean Sailing and individualized trainings plans for improved wellness.
You can read the complete article here: https://ms-perspektive.com/085-ectrims-rehab
Rehabilitation for multiple sclerosis (MS) is rapidly evolving, with exciting new approaches tailored to the unique needs of people with progressive MS (PwPMS). Recent studies have explored how various types of personalized therapies can improve both physical and mental well-being, offering a wider range of options for supporting a fulfilling, active life with MS. The article discusses innovative rehabilitation methods such as cognitive-affective profiling, sleep optimization, offshore sailing, and tele-rehabilitation. Each approach offers its own benefits, allowing people with MS to explore therapies that fit their specific needs and lifestyle. Whether you are looking to improve your mental focus, increase your physical resilience, or gain more flexibility in your treatment plan, these insights offer inspiring insights into the future of MS rehabilitation.
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See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.
Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
Dr. Jonathan Pansieri explains how vascular dysfunction could worsen multiple sclerosis and become a target for future treatment approaches.
You can read all questions and answers here: https://ms-perspektive.com/84-Vascular-dysfunction
When it comes to multiple sclerosis (MS), you probably know that the immune system plays a role in attacking the nervous system. But what if your blood vessels also played an important role? In this interview, we dive into the fascinating link between vascular dysfunction and MS with insights from Dr. Jonathan Pansieri. From how the blood-brain barrier is disrupted, to how impaired blood flow can worsen inflammation, we explore how vascular issues could be affecting your journey with MS. Understanding this link could open new doors on treatment strategies and offer fresh hope to patients living with this complex disease.
Table of ContentsI am Dr Jonathan Pansieri, neuroscientist in the Medical Science Division of the University of Oxford, and a fellow from the UK-MS society. I am 36 years-old, living with my partner who is also a scientist in the Department of Surgery focusing on prostate cancer. I am a dog person, so I would love to have 2 big dogs in the near future, but I will need to adapt my schedule for that! If there is something else to say about me, as a French citizen, I miss so much the lovely French pastries that I’m trying to make my own croissant and pain au chocolat, but despite 5 years of training now, I definitely need to improve my skills, it is such a disaster so far…
How and where can interested people follow your research activities?As an academic, I’m always dedicated to share our progresses with both the research community and individuals living with progressive MS. In addition, we regularly host patient information days in Oxford to present the latest in clinical care, symptom management, and research advancements, so stay tune!
You can also follow my work on Twitter (@group_deluca and @JPansieri), where I share insights and updates (though I wish I could share more!). Additionally, you can connect with me on ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jonathan-Pansieri) and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-pansieri-11887bb5/), where I’m always open to discussions. Thank you all for your support—let’s keep pushing forward together!
---Many thanks to Jonathan for the exciting interview and also to all his colleagues working on the project. It sounds very promising.
See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.
Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
When can we consider de-escalation or even discontinuation of a high-efficient immunotherapy for MS without risking a disease worsening?
You can read the full article on my blog: https://ms-perspektive.com/83-deescalation
Hello and welcome to another summary of ECTRIMS 2024, this time on the topic of de-escalation and discontinuation of therapy. There was a scientific session on this topic with six lectures, moderated by Dr. Melinda Magyari and Prof. Bernhard Hemmer. And there were also individual posters. Except for one talk about NMOSD and MOGAD, all scientific contributions were about multiple sclerosis.
I will present all the contributions and their results, some of which are still preliminary. After all, it is a topic that probably affects most of us. Can or should I switch my therapy from a high efficacy to a lower one or even stop it altogether at some point, and when is that a safe approach?
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See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.
Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
Leda Bresnov shares her diagnosis, coping strategies, and insights on living with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) in Denmark.
You can read all questions and answers on my blog: https://ms-perspektive.com/82-leda
Meet NMO patient Leda Bresnov, a strong and inspiring woman who is originally from Brazil and has been living in Denmark since 1991. Leda, a wife and mother of two adult children, is overcoming the challenges of Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and is trying to raise awareness of the disease. In this interview, Leda shares her personal journey with NMO, from the shock of her diagnosis to her coping strategies and the support systems she has found along the way. Through her story, she offers valuable insights into living with NMO in Denmark, how to advocate for yourself, and how to find hope and strength in the face of a rare disease.
Table of ContentsBorn and raised in Brazil, moved to Denmark in1991 to live with my husband.Together we have a daughter aged 23, a son aged 19, two dogs and a cat. I have a background as a laboratory technician and worked for the same company for 16 years, before the NMO.
Finally, what message of hope or encouragement would you like to share with individuals living with NMOSD or MOGAD in Denmark?It is possible to have a good, meaningful life with NMOSD.
How and where can interested people find you online?Email: [email protected] On Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), TikTok as Leda Bresnov.
---Thank you very muh hfor all your efforts and being so active on social media Leda to get other people inspired and become active and to increase the awareness for NMOSD.
See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.
Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
Dr. Sanja V. Gluscevic, a neurologist from Montenegro, specializes in MS, NMOSD and MOGAD, and is dedicated to patient care and advocacy.
You can read all questions and answers on my blog: https://ms-perspektive.com/81-sanja-gluscevic
Today I would like to introduce you to Dr. Sanja V. Gluscevic, a renowned neurologist who specializes in multiple sclerosis (MS) as well as other inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system and epilepsy. Hailing from Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, Dr. Gluscevic has built her impressive career with dedication and passion to improve the lives of patients with neurological disorders.
With extensive training and experience in leading medical centers, as well as her active involvement in international organizations and her own NGO, Dr. Gluscevic is not only an expert in her field, but also a passionate advocate for the education and support of patients with MS, NMOSD and MOGAD worldwide. Learn more about her personal motivation, her professional achievements and her efforts to raise awareness of brain diseases in Montenegro. Be inspired by her story, her knowledge and her tireless dedication to making a difference in the lives of people with MS.
Table of ContentsHello Nele. Thank you very much for your kind invitation to participate in your esteemed podcast today.
I am a neurologist specializing in MS, other inflammatory disorders of central nervous system and epilepsy. I come from Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, a small and picturesque country in the Balkans, with approximately 620.000 inhabitants. I have completed my residency and fellowship training in epilepsy and clinical neurophysiology at the University of Belgrade, Medical School. During my tenure there, I had the privilege of learning from eminent figures in the realms of multiple sclerosis and epilepsy including professor Jelena Drulović, professor Šarlota Mesaroš, professor Dragoslav Sokić and professor Aleksandar J. Ristić. Currently I am engaged in the pursuit of my master’s degree in MS at the European Charcot Foundation (where I also serve as vice- chair of ECF young investigator/fellow) and PhD thesis in epilepsy at the University of Montenegro. I have also recently been appointed as a first Montenegrin ambassador of neurology and brain health by European academy of neurology (EAN). I am also honored to serve as the ambassador for The Sumaira Foundation, which, in my view, stands as the premier organization worldwide for NMOSD and MOGAD. The palpable engagement, energy, affection, and unwavering support within this vast and diverse community make it the epitome of a unified and inclusive family dedicated to these rare conditions.
Beyond my personal endeavors, I take immense pride in fulfilling roles as a mother, a spouse, and a devoted owner of Russian wolfhound. My passion for exploring diverse cultures through travel is unwavering, and I find solace and inspiration in tranquil nature walks accompanied by classical and rock music, depending on a mood, while delving into the depths of literature exploring the intricacies of human behavior from psychological and neuroscientific perspective.
Finally, what message of hope or encouragement would you like to share with the listeners?Never surrender! Hold onto hope! You are not navigating this journey alone. Your resilience and personal stories serve as the cornerstone of our advancement, inspiring us to intensify our research efforts. A vast global network of researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals stands behind you!
The past decade has witnessed remarkable breakthroughs that have transformed treatment approaches, heralding a brighter future. Our collective aspiration is that one day, discussions will center not only on finding a better cure but on preventing these conditions altogether. Let us forge ahead with unwavering determination and shared purpose.
How and where can interested people follow your research activities?Interested individuals can follow my research activities through my publications on academic platform (Researchgate), or on professional social media (LinkedIn).
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sanja-Gluscevic-2
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanja-v-gluscevic-🧠🧪📂-17a41b283
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Thanks to Sanja for the insights and the great commitment to your patients.
See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.
Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
Learn more about b-cell depletion, including Ocrevus, Kesimpta, Bonspri, Mabthera, Rituxan, and Briumvi, used for active RRMS, SPMS, and PPMS.
You can read the full article on my blog: https://ms-perspektive.com/080-b-cell-depletion
B-cell depletion therapies such as ocrelizumab (Ocrevus), ofatumumab (Kesimpta, Bonspri), rituximab (Mabthera, Rituxan) and ublituximab (Briumvi) have become important tools in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). These treatments specifically target and deplete B cells, a type of immune cell involved in the inflammatory process of MS. B-cell therapies are considered to be some of the most specific and potent disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) available today, offering a tailored approach to reducing disease activity and progression. In this blog, we will explore how these therapies are classified within MS treatment options and what their approval status and efficacy mean for different patient populations.
Please remember that I can only provide an overview here. Your neurologist and your MS nurse should advise you in detail on the right therapy for you. This is because they know your general state of health and you should also talk about your goals, wishes, fears and preferences so that these can be taken into account.
Table of ContentsI used the following sources to create the content:
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You may also want to look at the posts on the other DMTs:
See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.
Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
Personalized treatments, genetic risk factors, gender differences and the advantages of early, highly effective therapies.
You can read the full article here: https://ms-perspektive.com/ectrims-2024-ww1
This year, ECTRIMS 2024 in Copenhagen, Denmark, will once again bring together leading experts in multiple sclerosis (MS) from around the world. The prestigious conference is the premier event for researchers, physicians and healthcare professionals all working towards a common goal: improving quality of life through groundbreaking research and advances in the treatment of MS and related diseases. The event, which is expected to attract around 9,000 attendees, promises a rich program of inspiring keynote addresses, exciting oral and poster presentations, and carefully curated scientific and educational sessions. In addition, there will be numerous opportunities for networking and connecting with the international MS community. I have brought you some exciting papers to start my coverage of this year’s event.
From biomarkers that help predict disease progression to new insights into genetic risk factors and gender differences in treatment, these results underscore the growing importance of personalized care in the management of MS. Key findings include the benefits of early, high-potency treatments for children, the association of inherited genetic variants with MS risk, and the therapeutic inertia in the management of women with MS. These studies pave the way for more targeted and effective treatment strategies that could transform outcomes for people with MS worldwide.
Table of ContentsSerum neurofilament light chain and glial fibrillary acidic protein levels at disease onset unveil immunologic pathways of disability acquisition in multiple sclerosis, Monreal E., et al. (2024). Presented at ECTRIMS 2024.
Meier S., Willemse E.A., Schaedelin S., et al. (2023). Serum Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein Compared with Neurofilament Light Chain as a Biomarker for Disease Progression in Multiple Sclerosis. JAMA Neurol., 80(3):287-297. doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2022.5250
Lublin, F. D., Häring, D. A., Ganjgahi, H., et al. (2022). How patients with multiple sclerosis acquire disability. Brain: A Journal of Neurology, 145(9), 3147-3161. https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awac016
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See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele
For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.
Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
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