Dr. Lin’s research focuses on multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision.
MS is caused by damage to the myelin sheath, the protective covering that surrounds nerve cells. The damaged myelin forms scar tissue, or sclerosis. When any part of the myelin sheath or nerve fiber is damaged or destroyed, nerve impulses traveling to and from the brain and spinal cord are distorted or interrupted. MS is a progressive disease, meaning the nerve damage worsens over time.
“The ultimate goal of our study is to understand the role of the PERK-eIF2 alpha pathway involved in MS,” Dr. Lin said. “The pathway is important for nerve cell survival under conditions associated with sclerosis.”
Dr. Lin said there is currently no known cure for MS. “There are some treatments for MS that target immune response, but these current treatments have little impact on the progression of disability,” he said. “The knowledge gained from this unique research will have important implications for understanding the pathogenesis, or development, of multiple sclerosis. Our findings may lead to therapeutic strategies useful in protecting the cells by targeting the PERK- eIF2 alpha pathway.”
The National MS Society is a driving force of MS research, supporting and stimulating world-class research into ways to prevent, better treat and cure the unpredictable disease. The society helps people affected by MS by driving change through advocacy, facilitating professional education, and providing programs and services that help them move their lives forward.
