Multiple sclerosis

In multiple sclerosis, the immune system not only attacks external invaders such as viruses or bacteria but also targets the body’s own tissues. In MS, this attack mainly affects the myelin sheaths — the protective coverings of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Myelin sheaths form a protective layer around nerve fibers and help electrical signals travel quickly and reliably through the body — for example, to the muscles, so that we can move purposefully. When this layer is damaged by inflammation, as in MS, the signals may arrive weakened or not at all at their intended destination.

Because such inflammations can occur in various parts of the brain or spinal cord, the symptoms can vary greatly. Some people experience numbness or tingling in their arms or legs. If the optic nerve is inflamed, vision may become blurry, double, or appear as though through a fog. Other individuals have difficulty with movement, feel constantly exhausted (this is referred to as “fatigue”), or have trouble concentrating.

MS can present very differently from one person to another — which is why it is often called “the disease with a thousand faces.”

Multiple sclerosis typically becomes noticeable between the ages of 20 and 40, making it the most common neurological disease in young adults. However, children and adolescents can also develop MS. In addition, women are about three times more likely to be affected than men.

A key concept for understanding MS is progression, which refers to the worsening or advancement of a disease. Due to the inflammation processes typical of MS, nerve damage increases, leading to worsening impairments.

This can happen during a relapse (flare-up). In some cases, symptoms do not fully resolve and may deteriorate permanently. MS often progresses in sudden steps through relapses. However, it is now known that MS can also remain active without visible relapses and silently cause long-term nerve damage.

With a deeper understanding of the disease's progression and the various manifestations of MS in the body, we now know that this disease is treatable and should be managed as early as possible. Our ongoing research contributes to advancing the understanding of MS progression and to decoding the complex mechanisms of the brain.

There is a symbiotic relationship between our knowledge of MS and the tools used to measure it — better understanding leads to better measurement methods, and better tools enhance our overall understanding.

Science and disease measurement evolve together. At Roche, we are committed to making progress on both fronts.