A recent study from Harvard University has provided strong evidence that infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a type of herpes virus, is the likely cause of multiple sclerosis (MS).
This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on a long-standing mystery about what triggers this chronic and debilitating disease.
MS is a progressive condition that affects the central nervous system, damaging the protective myelin sheath around neurons in the brain and spinal cord.
This disruption leads to a wide range of symptoms, including muscle weakness, balance problems, and cognitive difficulties. MS currently affects 2.8 million people worldwide, and while treatments can help manage symptoms, there is no definitive cure.
For years, researchers have suspected a link between MS and EBV, a virus that causes infectious mononucleosis (commonly known as “mono”) and establishes a lifelong presence in the body. However, proving this connection has been challenging—until now.
In the study, scientists analyzed health records and blood samples from more than 10 million young adults serving in the U.S. military. Among them, 955 individuals were diagnosed with MS during their service.
Using blood samples collected every two years, the researchers examined the soldiers’ EBV status before the onset of MS. Their findings were striking: the risk of developing MS increased 32-fold after EBV infection, but there was no similar increase associated with other viral infections.
Additionally, a biomarker of nerve damage, neurofilament light chain, only rose in the blood after EBV infection, further supporting the connection.
The researchers noted that the long delay between EBV infection and the onset of MS may be due to the disease’s early symptoms going unnoticed and the evolving interaction between the virus and the immune system over time.
While genetics and other environmental factors may still play a role, the study strongly suggests that EBV is the primary trigger.
This discovery has significant implications for the future of MS prevention and treatment.
Currently, there are no effective methods to prevent or treat EBV infection, but the development of an EBV vaccine or antiviral drugs specifically targeting the virus could potentially stop MS before it starts.
These findings could also pave the way for new treatments that address the underlying cause of MS rather than just its symptoms.
This research, published in Science and led by Alberto Ascherio, marks a major step forward in understanding MS. It highlights the importance of continued efforts to combat EBV and offers hope for millions of people living with this challenging disease.
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