Preface

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS). A diagnosis of MS can mean a lifelong illness that ranges from mild to severely debilitating. There is no known cure for the disease. Over the years, extensive research has been carried out to fully understand its etiology and pathogenesis, alongside robust clinical trials being conducted to develop effective therapeutic avenues. Research, as well as clinical trials, continue to take place across the world to help find a cure for MS. There is a very close interplay of immunological mechanisms in the development and progression of MS.

This book brings together the latest, cutting-edge research findings along with expert commentary on epidemiology, genetics, biomarkers, etiology, pathogenesis, immunology, neuroimaging, and clinical treatment modalities of this chronic inflammatory disease affecting the CNS. The book begins with an introductory chapter about MS that provides an in-depth understanding of the latest developments in disease-modifying therapies, stem-cell therapies, and neuroimaging. The next chapter delves into the interesting sphere of biomarkers for MS that may be helpful as diagnostic and prognostic markers of treatment. This is followed by a chapter that explores the impact of genetics and environmental and lifestyle factors that are of significant importance in MS. We then move on to an excellent piece of original research on ocular imaging in patients, and its usefulness in understanding the progression of MS. Following this, we examine the potential and role of artificial intelligence in the management of MS and in improving MS research. In the next section, we examine the impact of cognition and brain health on MS disease progression. The book ends with an in-depth assessment of the role of innate immunity in the pathogenesis of MS to help understand the disease and inform treatment modalities. We hope that readers find the book useful in helping improve their understanding of MS, as well as in furthering their interest in MS research and its clinical aspects.

> **Uday Kishore, Ph.D., FHEA, FRSB, FRCPath** Department of Veterinary Medicine, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates

**Abhishek Shastri, MBBS, Mphil, MRCPsych** Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom

**1**

Section 1

Avant-Garde in Multiple

Sclerosis

Section 1
