Mother of two participates in medical trial to prevent MS progression

Emma Phipps, a 44-year-old mother of two from Wansford near Peterborough, is among the last individuals to enroll in a new medical trial described by researchers as “groundbreaking.” Ms. Phipps, who has multiple sclerosis (MS), joined the University of Cambridge trial, which seeks to repair myelin. Myelin is a protective layer around nerve fibers that becomes damaged in individuals with MS. This condition involves the immune system attacking cells in the brain and spinal cord, impacting movement, thought, and sensation, though patient symptoms differ. Ms. Phipps stated, “I wasn’t going in thinking ‘this will fix me’, but the reality is it could help me and others living with MS. I don’t want my MS to get worse.” She received her diagnosis at 24 years old and experienced “mostly” symptom-free periods until her first child was born a decade ago. Her symptoms have included issues with cognition and challenges with walking. Regarding her participation, she remarked, “I first found out about the trial through my neurologist, and I jumped at the chance.” She further described the experience: “[It] is so interesting, fascinating. I go in and meet the research team, and talk about symptoms and do various tests. It’s a full MOT.” The project, named CCMR2, is funded by the MS Society. Researchers involved have been evaluating a combination of two treatments designed to aid in repairing damaged myelin, which, if left untreated, can result in escalating symptoms and the advancement of the disease. Dr. Nick Cunniffe, the neurologist spearheading this research, commented, “We are really excited about the results coming next year. It is my ambition to contribute to a world where people are not affected by their MS. I grow increasingly sure that a myelin repair therapy is part of the solution.” Dr. Clare Walton, who serves as the head of research at the MS Society, stated, “We desperately need treatments that repair myelin.” She added, “This is a vital step towards finding ways to slow or stop disability progression in everybody with MS and could revolutionise the way MS is treated.”