Authors: Fahmy Aboul-Enein, Martin Krššák, Romana Höftberger, Daniela Prayer, Wolfgang Kristoferitsch
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0011625
Abstract Summary
MRI spectroscopy reveals that axonal damage in normal-appearing brain tissue distinguishes progressive from relapsing MS. While relapsing-remitting patients showed no metabolic abnormalities, secondary progressive patients had significantly reduced N-acetyl-aspartate levels—a marker of neuronal health—suggesting axonal degeneration drives disease progression.
Why Brain? 🧠
Lower NAA levels in normal-appearing brain tissue distinguish progressive from relapsing MS, revealing hidden axonal damage that marks disease progression even in areas without visible lesions.
The image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes only. Courtesy of Midjourney.
