The Healthy Brain Toolbox Podcast

Can a blood test reveal MS activity before your MRI does? 🧠💉

In the first episode of The Healthy Brain Toolbox, I’m joined by Jennifer Chester of Octave Bioscience, a seasoned neurology nurse practitioner turned biotech innovator, to explore one of the most exciting breakthroughs in MS care.

We dive into the science and story behind the Octave MS Disease Activity Test—a powerful new tool that could change how we detect, track, and treat Multiple Sclerosis.

Whether you're a clinician, a patient, or just curious about the future of neurology, this conversation is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.

🎧 Listen now to discover how precision medicine is reshaping MS management—and why this test might be the key to earlier, more effective interventions.

Key Takeaways

• Jennifer’s journey from neurotrauma nurse to MS specialist (with a few family ties to neurology along the way)
• What the MS Disease Activity (MSDA) Test is and why it’s a game-changer
• How a blood test can detect disease activity before an MRI does (yes, really!)
• The real-life patient story that made Jennifer a believer
• What’s next: MS progression, Parkinson’s, and maybe even Alzheimer’s

About the Guest

Jennifer Chester is a seasoned Neurology Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience. She began her career in Ortho/Neuro/Trauma and found her true calling in MS care in 2012. After years at an MS Center, she recently transitioned to a new role as a Medical Science Liaison with Octave Bioscience. Jennifer continues to fuel her passion for improving the lives of those living with MS, now from the forefront of innovation.

Additional Resources

Website

• www.octavebio.com

LinkedIn

• www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-chester-3b36b213
• www.linkedin.com/company/octave-bio

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