Dr Julia Morahan is the Head of Research at MS Australia. She oversees the research funding and coordinating activities. Our conversation opened up the complexities of MS and the unpredictability of the disease that affects millions worldwide.
MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. The immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres called Myelin. This leads to inflammation and damage, disrupting the flow of electrical impulses between the brain and the body.
Dr Julia and other researchers for MS Australia have not only been searching for the cause of MS in some people, including the potential of damage from the Epstein- Barr virus, but also for ways to repair the damage caused by the immune system.
It’s the collaborations between MS Australia and international organisations that are allowing such great advances in MS treatment. While a cure is still a tough reach, being able to slow down or repair the damage caused by MS is a huge advancement. This is exciting news for people living not only with MS but other degenerative diseases.
We really are looking at a much brighter future, thanks to the researchers at MS Australia.
To listen to Dr Julia Morahan:
https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/GVWf7DuATHb
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ms-with-dr-julia-morahan/id1721095141?i=1000648022377