Causes of MS
While the precise causes of MS are not yet known, much scientific research indicates that MS is a “multi-factorial” disease, meaning it is caused by more that one thing. The scientific theories about the causes of MS are:
- IMMUNOLOGIC: It is now generally accepted that MS involves an autoimmune process—an abnormal immune response directed against the central nervous system (CNS). The immune system usually fights foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. In MS the immune system attacks the myelin covering of the CNS, causing problems in nerve transmission leading to the symptoms of MS. The exact antigen—the target the immune cells are sensitized to attack—remains unknown. In recent years, however, researchers have been able to identify which immune cells are mounting the attack. Also, how they are activated to attack, and some of the sites, or receptors. The attacking cells appear to be attracted to the myelin begin the destructive process. The destruction of myelin—the fatty sheath that surrounds and insulates the nerve fibers—causes the nerve impulses to be slowed or halted and produces the symptoms of MS. Researchers are looking for highly specific immune modulating therapies to stop this abnormal immune response without harming normal immune cells.
- ENVIRONMENTAL: The further North and South of the Equator you live the greater the chances are of developing MS. Studies have shown that people, who are born in an area of the world with a high risk of MS and move to an area with a lower risk, acquire the risk of their new home, if the move occurs prior to adolescence.
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