Vitamin D and MS (multiple sclerosis)

Article by Don Goldberg

In multiple sclerosis (MS), the immune system attacks the protective layer surrounding nerve fibers, disrupting signals from the brain to the body. The ability of the body to repair this protective myelin layer decreases as MS progresses.

In this lab study, doctors were able to activate vitamin D receptors in special cells that help rebuild myelin, promoting myelin repair. When doctors blocked the vitamin D receptors, the myelin rebuilding process stopped.

These preliminary results suggest vitamin D may both lower the chances of developing MS, and have additional therapeutic benefits in treating the condition.

Reference: Journal of Cell Biology; 2015, Vol. 211, No. 5, 975-85