The Weill Cornell Medicine Multiple Sclerosis Center uniquely integrates uniquely integrates clinical trials, clinical research, and pre-clinical research. Clinical scientists working in concert with molecular biologists, immunologists and neuroscientists focus their efforts on solving the major problems of MS.
MS Center Research Program
As novel therapeutics focused on repair and neuroprotection are developed for multiple sclerosis, the need for accurate markers to measure the disease is essential in order to translate these agents from the lab to clinical trials in patients with MS. Our imaging program is a novel multi-modality program for MS, which includes both MRI and Positron Emission Tomography (PET). We focus our efforts on developing new methods to measure ongoing myelin and nerve damage in patients with MS.
Clinical Trials
We participate in a number of novel MS drug therapy clinical trials, including both phase II and phase III studies. A phase II study is typically only six to 10 months in duration, whereas a phase III study is a large multi-center clinical trial requiring a typical patient commitment of two years.
Pre-clinical Research
Our research investigates the role of the microbiome and specific pathogens, particularly epsilon toxin-producing Clostridium perfringens, in the development of multiple sclerosis through the gut-brain axis. Using advanced laboratory techniques and animal models, we aim to uncover the mechanisms driving MS pathogenesis, identify new therapeutic targets, and develop strategies to promote myelin repair.