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Send us Fan Mail Nearly 20 years with an MS diagnosis—then a different answer. An experimental MS tablet raises questions about effectiveness and safety. And researchers investigate whether AI could help recognize MS earlier. In this edition of Just MS News, covering October 27–November 2, 2026, Justin Loizos looks at three stories about getting the diagnosis right, understanding treatment evidence, and recognizing changes sooner. We begin with DeMonica Amerson’s experience of having her diagnosis changed from multiple sclerosis to neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Next, we examine fenebrutinib’s MRI findings from MSToronto2026 and the safety questions that need careful consideration. Finally, we explore research using medical records and eye scans to investigate earlier clues to disease and disability. Plus, seven more headlines covering cognition, resistance training, treatment safety, spinal MRI, immune-cell research, optic neuritis and progressive MS. Which story raised the most questions for you? Share your thoughts in the comments or join us at https://www.JustMultipleSclerosis.com. Hosted by Justin Loizos, who has lived with MS since 2012. Show notes and sources Just MS News — October 27–November 2, 2026 THE THREE MAIN STORIES 1. Nearly 20 Years With an MS Diagnosis—Then NMOSD DeMonica Amerson’s story highlights the importance of distinguishing conditions that can resemble MS. NMOSD is a separate disease, and this is one person’s experience—not a typical diagnostic timeline. CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/multiple-sclerosis-misdiagnosis-neuromyelitis-optica-christina-applegate/ 2. Fenebrutinib: An Experimental MS Tablet and New MRI Findings Research presented at MSToronto2026 examines fenebrutinib’s effects on slowly expanding lesions and paramagnetic rim lesions. We discuss what these imaging findings might mean, their limitations, and why safety remains central to interpreting the results. MedPage Today: https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/ectrims/123611 Neurology Advisor: https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/reports/late-breaking-fenebrutinib-lesion-accumulation-multiple-sclerosis/ 3. Could AI Help Recognize MS Earlier? Researchers are exploring patterns in medical records and other measurements that could help identify people who need further assessment. We also discuss eye-scan research examining patterns over time. A risk estimate is not a diagnosis, and group-level findings are not individual forecasts. NeurologyLive — earlier recognition research: https://www.neurologylive.com/view/machine-learning-spots-early-signs-ms-nmosd-years-advance NeurologyLive — broader AI research coverage: https://www.neurologylive.com/view/ai-getting-more-out-ms-data-clinical-use-lags-behind MORE THIS WEEK IN MS Cognition and Physical Disability in MS Neuropsychology Review — original review indexed on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42895670/ Resistance Training and BDNF in MS PLOS ONE: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0359019 Rituximab and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Risk JAMA Neurology: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2855706 MRI Technique Investigated for Spinal Cord Lesion Detection Bioengineer.org — coverage of research in the Egyptian Journal of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine: https://bioengineer.org/double-inversion-recovery-mri-spots-more-spinal-cord-lesions-in-multiple-sclerosis/ Gene-Expression Research Examines Monocytes in MS Bioengineer.org — coverage of research in Discover Immunity: https://bioengineer.org/monocytes-not-t-cells-show-strongest-gene-disruption-in-multiple-sclerosis/ Experimental Optic Neuritis Treatment: Privosegtor Update Oculis company announcement via BioSpace: https://www.biospace.com/press-releases/oculis-to-feature-privosegtors-neuroprotective-potential-and-ongoing-pioneer-program-at-apois-congress-and-cns-summit Progressive MS Research: Immunic’s November 5 Preview Immunic company announcement via PR Newswire: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/immunic-to-host-virtual-progressive-multiple-sclerosis-rd-day-on-november-5-2026-302923493.html STAY CONNECTED Explore the weekly news and subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.JustMultipleSclerosis.com This episode provides news and education, not personal medical advice. Some underlying studies were published before this week’s coverage. Research findings and company announcements are discussed with their limitations. The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail Description This week on Just MS News: Christina Applegate’s reported MS misdiagnosis, detailed Phase 3 results for remibrutinib, and early CAR-T findings that raise serious safety questions. Join Justin Loizos for the week of October 20–26, 2026, as we explore what these stories mean for people living with multiple sclerosis—and what remains uncertain. In this episode: • Christina Applegate’s diagnosis questions: When an explanation changes but symptoms remain, where does that leave someone? We discuss her reported reassessment, the personal meaning of a diagnosis, and questions about access to specialists and diagnostic testing. • Remibrutinib’s Phase 3 results: Following last week’s MSToronto2026 preview, we look at the detailed relapse results, disability findings and safety data—and why those outcomes need to be considered separately. • CAR-T in MS: BMS’s early, uncontrolled Breakfree-2 study reported encouraging observations alongside serious complications and a participant’s death. We also revisit the separate Novartis programme paused after three deaths, keeping the treatments and findings clearly distinguished. Our system collected 131 articles in the October 20–26 window when we checked: 76 successfully fetched, 38 unsuccessful fetches and 17 marked as paywalled. We shortlisted nine stories and selected three for this show. The Applegate story alone accounted for 45 articles, videos and posts. Which questions stayed with you this week? Share them in the comments. Subscribe for weekly MS news, research updates and conversations grounded in lived experience. Website and newsletter: https://www.JustMultipleSclerosis.com Sources and further reading Christina Applegate — ABC News: https://abcnews.com/GMA/Culture/christina-applegate-misdiagnosed-ms/story?id=137407744 Remibrutinib — The Lancet: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(26)02058-1 Remibrutinib — NeurologyLive: https://www.neurologylive.com/view/remibrutinib-lowers-relapse-rate-vs-teriflunomide-relapsing-ms Remibrutinib — Novartis detailed results: https://www.novartis.com/news/media-releases/novartis-remibrutinib-delivered-comprehensive-disease-control-phase-iii-rms-trials-proven-robust-safety-profile BMS CAR-T safety coverage — BioSpace: https://www.biospace.com/drug-development/bms-reveals-death-from-septic-pneumonia-of-multiple-sclerosis-patient-in-car-t-trial Separate Novartis CAR-T programme — Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/novartis-pauses-autoimmune-cell-therapy-studies-after-deaths-wsj-reports-2026-09-01/ For information and discussion, not personal medical advice. #MultipleSclerosis #MSNews #JustMSNews The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail How can we better understand MS damage—and recognise progression when relapses aren’t happening? This week on Just MS News, Justin Loizos explores new research into MS damage, GLP-1 drugs and progression beyond relapses, alongside more research and community headlines. TOP THREE STORIES New clues to MS damage Research examining the lining of the brain’s fluid-filled spaces and its possible role in MS. Nature Neuroscience: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-026-02461-3GLP-1 drugs and MS What researchers are investigating, what the available evidence can tell us, and which questions remain unanswered. Bioengineer.org: https://bioengineer.org/glp-1-drugs-like-ozempic-face-a-new-test-multiple-sclerosis/Progression beyond relapses Tracking walking, hand function, thinking speed and everyday experiences to better understand changes in MS. Vall d’Hebron / Cemcat: https://www.vallhebron.com/en/news/news/severity-questionnaire-and-tests-patients-can-perform-themselves-enable-detection-multiple-sclerosis-progression-independent-relapsesMORE MS NEWS — THIS WEEK’S SHORTLIST • NAC and brain imaging research MedPage Today: https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/asfnr/123392 • Disparities in starting MS treatment National MS Society: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/news-and-magazine/news/dmt-initiation-disparities • Vagus nerve stimulation and hand rehabilitation NR Times: https://nrtimes.co.uk/vagus-nerve-stimulation-may-improve-ms-hand-rehab-therapy25/ • B-cell therapy and antiviral immunity Bioengineer.org: https://bioengineer.org/b-cell-depletion-therapy-reshapes-antiviral-immunity-in-multiple-sclerosis-study-finds/ • Digital tracking of daily MS symptoms Bioengineer.org: https://bioengineer.org/digital-symptom-tracking-reveals-how-multiple-sclerosis-patients-really-fare-day-to-day/ • Community: Bike MS New York CBS News New York: https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/nyc-bike-ms-road-closures-october-18-2026/ Which story stood out to you? Share your thoughts or experience in the comments. More MS news and our newsletter: https://www.justmultiplesclerosis.com Subscribe for weekly MS news, research and community stories. Some linked sources may require a subscription or institutional access. Research findings and experimental approaches should not be taken as proof of treatment benefit. For information and discussion, not personal medical advice. #MultipleSclerosis #MSResearch #JustMSNews The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail What can long-term treatment research tell us about living with MS—and what will it take to move myelin repair research forward? This week on Just MS News, Justin Loizos explores three stories connecting treatment, research funding and the MS community. OCREVUS: TEN-YEAR FINDINGS We examine the ten-year OPERA follow-up published in JAMA Neurology, what it suggests about starting ocrelizumab earlier in relapsing MS, and the limitations of interpreting long-term extension data. MYELIN REPAIR: THE FUNDING BEHIND THE RESEARCH Rewind Therapeutics has announced additional financing for its experimental oral GPR17 program. We revisit the mouse findings, explain why funding matters, and distinguish promising preclinical research from evidence that a treatment helps people. This announcement reports no new human treatment results. MSTORONTO2026: RESEARCH AND COMMUNITY The joint ACTRIMS–ECTRIMS meeting comes to Toronto October 21–23. We preview upcoming research, including planned remibrutinib results, and highlight Patient Community Day on October 23, with in-person and online participation. I’m excited about the opportunity and hoping I can attend. Disclosure: I have been taking Ocrevus for about four years and have worked with Roche on its co-creation council. SOURCES AND EVENT INFORMATION JAMA Neurology — Ten-year OPERA follow-up, Hauser and colleagues Rewind Therapeutics — October 6 financing announcement PLOS ONE — GPR17 preclinical study, De Herdt and colleagues Novartis — Upcoming MSToronto2026 presentations MSToronto2026 — Official conference website Patient Community Day — Information and registration What question would you most like MS researchers to answer? Share it in the comments, and subscribe for more Just MS News. Episode covering October 6–12, 2026. #MultipleSclerosis #MSNews #Ocrevus The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week in Just MS News, we cover three important developments across the MS research pipeline. The FDA has begun Priority Review of fenebrutinib for both relapsing MS and primary progressive MS, following three major Phase III trials. We also revisit PRO-1562, a remyelination therapy we’ve followed before, as it moves from preclinical research into its first Phase 1/2a human study. And researchers have identified a new inflammatory pathway involving HPGDS and PGD₂ that may help drive Th17-cell activity in MS. Human blood and cell findings supported the pathway, while blocking it reduced MS-like disease in mice. Also on the shortlist this week: • Continuing CAR-T safety questions in autoimmune trials • The 2026 Rachel Horne Prize recognizing research on women and MS • A&W Canada and MS Canada raising $1.56 million through Burgers to Beat MS As always, the goal is to separate what the research actually shows from what it does not — without hype or information overload. SOURCES & ARTICLES FDA Begins Priority Review of Fenebrutinib for Relapsing and Primary Progressive MS Source: BioPharma Dive https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/roche-fenebrutinib-ms-fda-accept-application-btk/831746/ Primary source: Roche https://www.roche.com/media/releases/med-cor-2026-09-30 PRO-1562 Enters First Phase 1/2a Human Study Focused on Remyelination Source: AllSci https://allsci.com/news/clinical-trials/pro-1562-multiple-sclerosis-trial-progentos/ Targeting the HPGDS-PGD₂ Axis to Treat Th17 Cell-Mediated Autoimmunity in Multiple Sclerosis Source: Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy / Nature Portfolio https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-026-02937-5 Autoimmune Researchers Seek Answers After Deaths in CAR-T Cell Trials Source: Medscape https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/autoimmune-researchers-seek-answers-after-deaths-car-t-cell-2026a10010xi Recognising Excellence in Women’s MS Research — 2026 Rachel Horne Prize Source: MS Trust https://mstrust.org.uk/news/recognising-excellence-womens-ms-research A&W and MS Canada Celebrate $1.56 Million Raised Through Burgers to Beat MS Source: A&W Canada / MS Canada / Newswire https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/a-amp-w-and-ms-canada-celebrate-outstanding-generosity-from-canadians-with-1-56-million-raised-from-burgers-to-beat-ms--899132706.htmlThe Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week in Just MS News: Alpha-lipoic acid has passed an important interim checkpoint in the phase 3 OCTOPUS trial for progressive MS, while metformin will not continue. This does not yet prove ALA slows disability progression, but it has shown enough potential to keep testing. A new Nature Medicine study also found EBV-related immune changes appearing roughly 30–90 days before confirmed MS relapses. The findings strengthen the link between EBV, B cells and MS activity, but do not prove EBV caused the relapses. European regulators have recommended expanding Ocrevus to people aged 10+ with active relapsing MS. We also cover a newly cleared C-CAR168 CAR-T trial for progressive MS and early Manitoba research into NRG-1 and myelin repair. SOURCES OCTOPUS / Alpha-Lipoic Acid https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2026/sep/existing-drug-shows-early-promise-treat-progressive-ms https://ms-octopus.mrcctu.ucl.ac.uk/ EBV Before MS Relapse — Nature Medicine https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04665-3 Ocrevus / Pediatric MS https://www.roche.com/media/releases/med-cor-2026-09-18 https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/variation/ocrevus C-CAR168 CAR-T / Progressive MS https://www.neurologylive.com/view/fda-clears-c-car168-trial-refractory-progressive-multiple-sclerosis NRG-1 / Manitoba Research https://umtoday.ca/stories/potential-new-ms-treatment-may-restore-brain-function https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-72639-7 Just Multiple Sclerosis https://justmultiplesclerosis.com Just MS News is for education and discussion and is not medical advice. Discuss treatment decisions, supplements or changes to your care with your healthcare team. #MultipleSclerosis #MSNews #ProgressiveMS #MSResearch #Ocrevus #EBV #CART #SPMS #PPMS The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week on Just MS News, we look at new research examining three very different parts of living with multiple sclerosis. Our lead story follows more than 500 newly diagnosed people with MS and compares early treatment strategies. B-cell-depleting therapies were linked with fewer relapses and less MRI activity — but after two years, researchers did not find a significant difference in disability. We also examine new research into late-onset MS. In an Egyptian cohort, people whose MS began later in life experienced fewer relapses but reached confirmed disability progression sooner — highlighting why relapse activity does not always tell the whole story. Then we look at MS fatigue. A study of people with relapsing-remitting MS found fatigue often appeared alongside poor sleep, pain, stress, anxiety, walking difficulties and heat sensitivity. The study shows associations, not cause and effect, but it raises an important practical question: what else may be adding to someone’s fatigue? Plus, we finish with one more quick MS update. Just MS News covers multiple sclerosis research carefully, without hype, with a focus on what the evidence actually means for people living with MS. SOURCES & RESEARCH Early MS treatment choices Uibel P. et al. Therapy Choices and Outcomes in Newly Diagnosed Multiple Sclerosis: The Pan-European MultipleMS Study Neurology Open Access, September 2026 https://doi.org/10.1212/WN9.0000000000000168 Late-onset MS and disability progression Fouad AM, Saad AA, Abd El-Aziz HM, Elelwany DA. Late-Onset Versus Adult-Onset Multiple Sclerosis: A Comparative Analysis of Clinical, Radiological, and Confirmed Disability Progression Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, September 11, 2026 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msard.2026.107923 MS fatigue and contributing factors Naghilou S. et al. Fatigue and contributing factors in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a descriptive study based on the comprehensive fatigue assessment battery for multiple sclerosis (CFAB-MS) Neurological Sciences, August 27, 2026 https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-026-09353-1 NR Times coverage, September 11, 2026: https://nrtimes.co.uk/fatigue-in-relapsing-remitting-ms-linked-to-pain-sleep-stress-study-finds-care26/ This content is for education and discussion and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Treatment decisions should be discussed with your MS care team. #MultipleSclerosis #MSResearch #MSNews #LivingWithMS The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week on Just MS News, we lead with a difficult but important story: Novartis has paused eight CAR-T clinical trials after three patient deaths linked to severe immune reactions. These are not simply numbers in a clinical trial or events affecting a company's share price. They were people who entered research hoping for something better. We look at what happened, what it may mean for CAR-T research in multiple sclerosis, and why patient safety has to remain at the centre of this conversation. I also share some of my own perspective. Early in my MS journey, I was offered the possibility of HSCT and ultimately decided the risks were more than I was personally prepared to accept. Decisions involving experimental or high-risk treatments are deeply personal, and stories like this are a reminder of what patients are sometimes being asked to weigh. A quick personal note: this week's episode is shorter than usual because I've been dealing with some of my own MS-related issues. Rather than miss the week entirely, I focused on our lead story and kept the remaining stories concise. This week's stories and sources 1. Novartis halts eight CAR-T cell therapy trials after deaths Source: EMJ GOLD Read the original article 2. Remibrutinib reports positive Phase 3 results in relapsing MS Source: Novartis Read the Novartis announcement 3. In-vivo CAR-T shows early promise in autoimmune disease, including MS Source: Nature Read the Nature article 4. Targeted MS therapy uses patients' red blood cells to curb autoimmune attacks Source: Medical Xpress Read the article 5. Aging and cellular senescence as possible drivers of MS progression Source: Journal of Neuroscience Read the paper 6. DMTs associated with higher risk of some gynecologic complications Source: NeurologyLive Read the article 7. Real-world infection risk with B-cell-depleting MS therapy Source: NEJM Clinician Read the article 8. Researchers investigate shared biology behind profound fatigue Source: Medical Xpress Read the article 9. Funding boost for an EBV vaccine with possible future MS-prevention relevance Source: National Tribune Read the article 10. Genetic score may help predict lymphopenia risk with dimethyl fumarate Source: NeurologyLive Read the article As always, Just MS News is about following the science without losing sight of the people behind it. Subscribe for weekly multiple sclerosis news, research updates and patient perspective. Sources and story selection are based on the September 1–7 weekly article collection. The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week on Just MS News, we break down some of the most important multiple sclerosis research and developments from August 25–31, 2026. Our top stories: 🚶 Everyday Walking Data & MS Progression Researchers are looking at whether real-world walking measurements could help reveal MS progression earlier. Source: Multiple Sclerosis Journal 🦠 EBV, MS & the Push for a Vaccine The connection between Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis continues to drive research into whether preventing EBV infection could ultimately help prevent MS. Sources: Technology Networks / ClinicalTrials.gov 🧠 Recovery vs. Compensation in MS Rehabilitation New rehabilitation research explores an important distinction: are people actually recovering neurological function, or learning better ways to compensate for impairment? Source: International Journal of MS Care Also in this week’s MS news: neurogenic bladder, treatment-access updates, MS nursing, BTK research in the central nervous system, family screening, distinguishing MS from MOGAD, and stories from people living and working in the MS community. Just MS News cuts through the noise to focus on MS research, treatment, rehabilitation and the developments that matter to people living with multiple sclerosis. 👍 Like the video if you found it useful.  💬 Tell me which story you want me to explore further.  🔔 Subscribe for weekly MS news, interviews and deeper discussions. For information and more Just MS content: justmultiplesclerosis.com This content is for educational and informational purposes and is not medical advice. Always discuss treatment or healthcare decisions with a qualified medical professional. #MultipleSclerosis #MSResearch #MSNews #MultipleSclerosisResearch #MSAwareness #JustMSNews #LivingWithMS The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week on Just MS News, we’re focusing on two important areas of multiple sclerosis research: understanding progression and repairing damage. 👁️ Could your eyes reveal clues about MS progression? Researchers are investigating whether measurements of retinal layers using OCT — optical coherence tomography — could help identify people at greater risk of future cognitive progression. The study specifically looked at cognitive PIRA — progression independent of relapse activity — and raises an intriguing possibility: could a relatively simple eye scan eventually provide another window into what is happening elsewhere in the nervous system? 🧠 The race to repair myelin Researchers in Germany are developing a transdermal patch designed to deliver low, steady doses of theophylline as a potential approach to promoting remyelination. The patch has NOT been shown to repair myelin in people with MS. It remains experimental and is moving toward early human testing. But the bigger story is how many different approaches researchers are now taking toward remyelination. We look at the new patch alongside some of the other myelin-repair research we’ve been following. This week’s sources: 🔶 Retinal layers and cognitive progression in MS https://visualize.jove.com/42562954-Retinal-layers-prognosticate-cognitive-progression-independent-of-relapse-activity-in-multiple-sclerosis 🔶 A Transdermal Patch to Promote Remyelination in Multiple Sclerosis Patients — Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz https://cnb-idn.biologie.uni-mainz.de/a-transdermal-patch-to-promote-remyelination-in-multiple-sclerosis-patients/ For the complete weekly MS news digest — including stories that don’t make the video — visit: https://justmultiplesclerosis.com Understand the progression. And, hopefully one day, repair the damage. Just MS News provides news and information for the MS community and is not medical advice. Always discuss medical decisions with your healthcare team The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week on Just MS News, we look at four developments in multiple sclerosis research and diagnosis — including an important FDA regulatory milestone for CAR-T therapy in progressive MS. This week: 🔶 CAR-T for non-active SPMS The FDA has granted RMAT designation to miv-cel, an experimental CD19 CAR-T therapy being studied in non-active secondary progressive MS. The designation could help accelerate its development — but it is not FDA approval, and the human evidence remains very early. 🔶 New 2024 McDonald Criteria Updated MS diagnostic criteria may allow more people to meet diagnostic criteria earlier. One major change is the inclusion of the optic nerve as a fifth location when evaluating dissemination in space. 🔶 Lucid-MS moves toward Phase 2 Lucid-MS has been cleared to begin Phase 2 testing in progressive MS. The experimental therapy takes a different approach by targeting biological processes associated with myelin damage. Human evidence of benefit in MS has not yet been established. 🔶 Artificial Axons and remyelination research Researchers are developing engineered artificial-axon models that may provide a better way to test potential remyelination drugs before they move toward human trials. This is a drug-discovery platform — not an MS treatment. Related research: Last week, Just MS News covered lab-grown “mini-brains” being used to study myelin repair. This week’s Artificial Axons story tackles a similar problem from a different direction — using engineered nerve-fibre models to test how oligodendrocytes form myelin and how candidate remyelination drugs behave. Together, they highlight a broader challenge in MS research: building better laboratory models before potential treatments move into human trials. Sources: CAR-T / miv-celTitle: Kyverna Therapeutics Reports Pipeline Progress and Second Quarter 2026 Financial ResultsAuthor/Source: Kyverna Therapeutics Published: August 11, 2026 Live link: https://ir.kyvernatx.com/news-releases/ This is the company release announcing that FDA granted RMAT designation to miv-cel for non-active SPMS. 2024 McDonald Criteria / Earlier MS DiagnosisTitle: Applying the 2024-revised McDonald criteria for multiple sclerosis using conventional diagnostic tools: a single-centre prospective cohort study in GermanyLead author: F. F. Konen Journal: eClinicalMedicine DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2026.104098 Live link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589537026003512 This is the 215-person study behind the 93.5% vs 84%, optic-nerve 55%, and VEP 89% figures. Lucid-MS / Phase 2Title: FDA Clears Phase 2 Trial for Demyelinating Agent Lucid-MS in Progressive Multiple SclerosisAuthor: Marco Meglio Outlet: NeurologyLive Published: August 13, 2026 Live link: https://www.neurologylive.com/view/fda-clears-phase-2-trial-demyelinating-agent-lucid-ms-progressive-multiple-sclerosis The article covers the FDA-cleared IND, Phase 1 healthy-volunteer results, PAD2 mechanism, and planned randomized Phase 2 trial. Artificial Axons / Remyelination Drug ScreeningTitle: MIT spinout Artificial Axon gets NINDS backing for MS lesion-mimicking drug screening platformSource: AllSci Published: August 11, 2026 Live link: https://allsci.com/news/grants/ms-drug-screening-platform-artificial-axon-labs/ This is the source reporting the $1.48 million NINDS SBIR Phase II funding. For the Artificial Axon science itself, the underlying 2025 paper is also worth linking: Myelin ensheathment and drug responses of oligodendrocytes are modulated by stiffness of artificial axons Mingyu Yang, Calliope J. L. Martin, Kavin Kowsari, Anna Jagielska, Krystyn J. Van Vliet PLOS ONE, 2025 The goal of Just MS News is simple: explain what happened, what the evidence actually shows, and why it matters for people living with MS. Subscribe for weekly MS research, treatment and community news. The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week on Just MS News, we take a closer look at three important stories from the multiple sclerosis community. First, new research in JAMA Neurology strengthens the evidence around GFAP, a blood biomarker that may help researchers track progression independent of relapse activity, or PIRA. The study included more than 2,300 people with MS and over 18,000 blood measurements. That story also connects with a small randomized study of high-dose N-acetyl cysteine, or NAC, in progressive MS. Participants received 1,250 mg three times daily for four weeks, and researchers observed a significant difference in GFAP levels compared with placebo. The study was very small and does not show that NAC slows MS progression, but a larger trial is already underway. Next, we review a systematic review of exercise in people with severe MS disability. What can exercise still improve when walking is limited or disability has progressed, and why are nonambulatory people still so underrepresented in exercise research? Finally, Christina Applegate is reportedly back home and doing very well following a months-long hospitalization. Applegate has been living publicly with MS since announcing her diagnosis in 2021. Just MS News looks beyond the headline to explain what the research actually found, what remains uncertain, and why it may matter to people living with MS. Sources include JAMA Neurology, Multiple Sclerosis Journal, Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, University of Basel, UCSF, Neurology Advisor, and PEOPLE. Learn more and follow the latest MS news at: www.justmultiplesclerosis.com This content is for news and educational purposes and is not medical advice. The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This Week on Just MS News This week, we look at three important stories affecting the MS community. Researchers in Australia are using lab grown “mini brains” to investigate how damaged myelin might one day be repaired. Sheffield Teaching Hospitals has also treated its first MS participant with experimental CAR T cell therapy, an approach researchers have been watching for years. We also examine a revised Cleveland Clinic protocol designed to help MS clinicians respond more confidently when a patient reports suicidal thoughts. The episode finishes with several additional stories worth checking out, including treatment discontinuation in older adults, EBV vaccine and T cell research, MS treatment sequencing, OCT in diagnosis, and the need for better pain care. Featured stories Researchers use lab grown mini brains to study MS repair Sheffield treats its first MS participant with CAR T cell therapy Cleveland Clinic revises its suicidal ideation protocol for MS care More stories worth checking out Stopping disease modifying therapies in older, stable patients EBV vaccine and T cell trials in MS Framework for sequencing MS treatments OCT and the updated McDonald diagnostic criteria Why MS pain needs more attention Visit Just Multiple Sclerosis for the always open MS news stream, past weekly editions, community updates, and Sudoku Omega, a free sudoku game I built to help you slow down, focus, and relax. Follow Just Multiple Sclerosis on Instagram and Facebook for weekly clips, updates, and community highlights. Mental Health and Crisis Support United States: Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Free, confidential support is available 24 hours a day across the United States and its territories.  Canada: Call or text 988 to reach the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline. Support is available nationwide, 24 hours a day, in English and French. Visit 988.ca. Other countries: Find verified crisis and emotional-support services in your country through Find A Helpline or Befrienders Worldwide.  If someone is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services. The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week on Just MS News, we lead with encouraging—but still early remyelination research. Scientists have identified an experimental small molecule that promoted oligodendrocyte development and remyelination in preclinical models. We explain how this candidate differs from PTD802, the remyelination therapy we recently covered as it prepared to enter human testing. We also look at: • Fampridine becoming routinely available through NHS England for eligible adults with MS-related walking difficulties • Evidence examining whether treatment escalation after clinically silent MRI lesions may reduce future relapse risk • New research exploring how anti-CD20 therapies may affect protective immune cells originating in the gut • A large U.S. analysis identifying racial, geographic and age-related disparities in MS-associated mortality • Two brothers continuing their remarkable marathon journey using an adaptive racing wheelchair ARTICLES AND SOURCES 1. A Novel Small Molecule Remyelination Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis    Source: npj Drug Discovery    https://www.nature.com/articles/s44386-026-00060-7 2. Thousands With MS to Get Fampridine on the NHS to Help Them Walk More Freely    Source: NHS England    https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/07/thousands-ms-life-changing-drug-nhs-help-walk-more-freely/ Clinical commissioning policy: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/clinical-commissioning-policy-prolonged-released-pr-fampridine-as-a-treatment-of-adults-with-multiple-sclerosis-and-associated-walking-impairment/ 3. Treatment Escalation After Clinically Silent MRI Lesions in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis    Source: Brain    https://academic.oup.com/brain/advance-article/doi/10.1093/brain/awag252/8741305 4. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depletion Is Associated With Elevated Mucosal-Originating Circulating Immune Cells    Source: Science Translational Medicine    https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.aee1580 5. Racial and Ethnic Trends and Comorbidity Patterns in Multiple Sclerosis Mortality    Source: Neurology Open Access    https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WN9.0000000000000148 6. Man With MS Does Marathons With a Push From His Brother    Source: Deseret News    https://www.deseret.com/sports/2026/07/22/deseret-news-marathon-brian-danny-connolly-wheelchair-ms-people-with-disabilities/ Just MS News provides accessible summaries of multiple sclerosis news and research. This episode is for informational purposes and should not replace guidance from your healthcare team. Visit Just Multiple Sclerosis: https://www.justmultiplesclerosis.com Listen to the podcast: https://www.justmultiplesclerosis.com/podcast #MultipleSclerosis #MSNews #Remyelination #MSResearch #Fampridine #MultipleSclerosisResearch The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com

Send us Fan Mail This week on Just MS News, we examine new research that may help clarify how Epstein–Barr virus fits into the immune process behind multiple sclerosis. We also look at evidence supporting earlier high-efficacy treatment for pediatric-onset MS, the DOT-MS trial on stopping treatment after years of stable disease, virtual-reality rehabilitation for cognitive symptoms, and a Colorado community story about mobility, rehabilitation and assistive technology. This episode covers: • A more specific EBV-reactive T-cell response identified in people with untreated MS • Earlier high-efficacy treatment and long-term disability outcomes in pediatric MS • What happened when people with stable MS stopped certain disease-modifying therapies • Virtual-reality rehabilitation for cognition and mood • A bride with MS who prepared for a supported 68-foot aisle walk Articles and Research CD4+ T Cells Reactive to Epstein–Barr Virus Late Lytic Antigens Are Enriched in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis Source: Science Translational Medicine Authors: Kjetil Bjornevik and colleagues Read the study Early High-Efficacy Therapy May Reduce Disability in Pediatric MS Source: Neurology Advisor Based on research published in Neurology Read the article Discontinuation of Disease-Modifying Therapy in Patients With Stable Multiple Sclerosis—Clinical Trial of the Year Source: JAMA Neurology Author: S. Andrew Josephson, MD Read the editorial Discontinuation of First-Line Disease-Modifying Therapy in Patients With Stable Multiple Sclerosis: The DOT-MS Randomized Clinical Trial Source: JAMA Neurology Authors: Eline M. E. Coerver, Wing Hee Fung, Janet de Beukelaar and colleagues Read the original trial Effects of Virtual Reality-Based Rehabilitation on Cognitive Function and Mood in Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Source: Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders Authors: Jiongliang Zhang, Minmin Wu, Jinting Li, Wenjing Song, Xiaoguang Lin and Luwen Zhu Read the study on PubMed Colorado Bride With MS Surprises Wedding Guests by Walking Down the Aisle Source: 9NEWS Colorado Read the story Visit Just Multiple Sclerosis for the complete weekly digest: https://justmultiplesclerosis.com Subscribe for calm, clear and accessible weekly MS news without the information overload. #MultipleSclerosis #MSNews #JustMSNews #MSResearch #EpsteinBarrVirus #PediatricMS #MSRehabilitation The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments. www.justmultiplesclerosis.com