MS Living Well: Key Info from Multiple Sclerosis Experts

Barry Singer, MD
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Barry Singer, MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, interviews global expert guests about the latest treatments, innovations and tips for people living with multiple sclerosis.

  1. Repairing MS: The Quest to Rebuild Myelin

    4 DAYS AGO

    Repairing MS: The Quest to Rebuild Myelin

    The quest to repair the damage caused by multiple sclerosis is gaining momentum, with scientists working to restore lost function and slow progression by rebuilding myelin—the protective coating of nerve cells. Within the brain and spinal cord, immature myelin-making cells called OPCs hold promise, but need the right signals to mature into oligodendrocytes and repair MS lesions. Researchers are also studying the role of microglia, the immune cells that clear debris but can turn destructive, with drugs like BTK inhibitors potentially tilting them toward repair. Early attempts at remyelination drugs such as opicinumab and elezanumab showed promise in animals but ultimately failed in human trials, underscoring the challenge. Still, reasons for optimism are emerging: clemastine, a common antihistamine, showed signs of remyelination in optic neuritis, while PIPE-307—a compound inspired by green mamba snake venom—is in Phase 2 trials. Even novel approaches like gold nanoparticles are being studied to boost oligodendrocyte energy and repair capacity. The path is complex, but progress is accelerating—bringing remyelination therapies closer to becoming a real option for people living with MS. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Veronique Miron PhD, MS Research Chair at St. Michael's Hospital and Professor of Immunology at The University of Toronto Robert Glanzman MD, Board-certified neurologist and Chief Medical Officer of Find Therapeutics

    40 min
  2. Parenting with MS: Finding Strength, Joy, and Resilience

    19 AUG

    Parenting with MS: Finding Strength, Joy, and Resilience

    Parenting can be both a beautiful adventure and a demanding test. For those living with multiple sclerosis, the joys of raising children often come with added challenges—fatigue, changes in routine, and questions about how MS may affect family life. Despite these obstacles, many parents with MS find that their journey brings deeper meaning, resilience, and joy. In this podcast episode, we’ll explore the unique challenges and strengths of parenting with MS. From managing invisible symptoms to navigating conversations with children, our guests share their expertise and experience to provide guidance and encouragement for families. Dr. Jamie Holloman, neurologist at the MS Center for Innovations in Care at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, interviews: Amy Sullivan PsyD, Clinical Health Psychologist, Director of Behavioral Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis. Julie Stamm, MS advocate and author of Some Days: A Tale of Love, Ice Cream, and My Mom’s Chronic Illness.

    32 min
  3. Repair, Reset, Reimagine: Stem Cell Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis

    22 JUL

    Repair, Reset, Reimagine: Stem Cell Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis

    Stem cells have the extraordinary ability to transform into different types of cells and renew themselves—offering new hope in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. One of the most advanced approaches—autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT)—involves collecting a patient’s own bone marrow stem cells, using chemotherapy to wipe out their faulty immune system, and then reinfusing the stem cells to help rebuild it. A more aggressive “myeloablative” approach can effectively halt relapses and new MRI activity but carries serious risks, including life-threatening infections. A gentler “immunoablative” method reduces these risks but allows for a return of MS activity in up to 25% of patients. AHSCT is typically reserved for younger individuals with aggressive relapsing disease and moderate or milder disability. Mesenchymal stem cells—derived from fat, bone marrow support tissue, or dental pulp—have shown mixed results. A large international trial found no benefit when delivered intravenously, although the treatment was safe. However, a smaller study using repeated injections into the spinal fluid showed disease stabilization in most participants. New research is now exploring neural stem cells, which may help protect and repair the brain and spinal cord. A recent Phase 1 trial involving 15 people with secondary progressive MS found reduced inflammation in blood and spinal fluid markers and less brain shrinkage on MRI scans following neural stem cells given into the spinal fluid spaces of the brain. Tune in as we unpack the science, the risks, and the exciting future of stem cell therapies in MS. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Stefano Pluchino MD PhD, Clinical Professor of Regenerative Neuroimmunology, Honorary Consultant in Neurology, University of Cambridge, UK Mark Freedman MD, Professor of Medicine in the field of neurology, University of Ottawa, and Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Research Unit, Ottawa Hospital, Canada

    46 min
  4. Beyond the Prescription Pad: Complementary and Alternative Medicine for MS

    1 JUL

    Beyond the Prescription Pad: Complementary and Alternative Medicine for MS

    Most people living with multiple sclerosis explore complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) as part of their care. Complementary therapies—such as supplements, special diets, or mind-body practices—are used alongside disease-modifying treatments (DMTs), while alternative therapies are chosen instead of them. In this episode, we dive into commonly used CAM approaches, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplements like turmeric and alpha-lipoic acid, as well as dietary strategies like the Mediterranean diet, intermittent fasting, and modified paleo. We also explore mind-body therapies—yoga, stretching, Pilates, and meditation—that may reduce stress, enhance well-being, and even lower inflammation. Plus, we examine alternative treatments such as low-dose naltrexone (LDN), CCSVI procedures, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, along with the potential risks of bypassing conventional care. Thoughtfully chosen and openly discussed with your healthcare team, CAM can play a meaningful supportive role in living well with MS. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Elizabeth Silbermann MD, MS Regional Director, VA Portland Health Care System and Assistant Professor of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University. Daniel Bandari MD, Medical Director and the Founder of the Multiple Sclerosis Center of California Clinic and Research Group, Laguna Hills, Orange County, California and Clinical Assistant Professor of Neurology and Neuro-immunology, University of Southern California

    41 min
  5. Boosting Brain Health: Blueprint for MS

    10 JUN

    Boosting Brain Health: Blueprint for MS

    Living with multiple sclerosis brings unique challenges to brain health, but there are powerful steps you can take to support and protect your mind.  Exercise not only improves endurance and reduces fatigue, but also helps rewire brain networks to promote resilience. Restorative sleep is essential, as it helps clear inflammation in the brain—so addressing disrupted sleep is a must. Nourish yourself with fruits and vegetables while cutting out sugary drinks and highly processed meats. Strengthen your social connections and lean on your support circle. When it comes to managing stress, discover what works best for you, whether it's music, yoga, meditation, or a favorite hobby. MS can cause the brain to shrink faster than normal—a process called atrophy—so protecting your brain reserves is crucial. Starting with effective disease-modifying therapy is key, but it doesn't stop there. Keep your brain engaged by reading, learning a new language, or picking up an instrument. If you smoke, creating a plan to quit is one of the most important steps you can take to reduce physical and cognitive decline. While MS can be unpredictable, you have the power to shape your brain health and preserve what matters most. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Lisa Doggett MD MPH, family and lifestyle medicine physician, UT Health Austin’s Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center Augusto Miravalle MD, Professor and Chief of the Multiple Sclerosis Center, Rush University, Chicago

    36 min
  6. Secondary Progressive MS: Next Chapter

    20 MAY

    Secondary Progressive MS: Next Chapter

    Figuring out if your multiple sclerosis is changing from the relapsing remitting to the secondary progressive stage can be murky. Signs of progression are discussed like slower walking and worsening memory. The underlying reasons for progression are revealed including nervous system injury, remyelination failure, chronic inflammation and aging. Practical ways to improve progressive symptoms are shared. Successful trials for disease-modifying therapy for secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) are highlighted. Tolebrutinib, under expedited review by the FDA, has been shown to slow down progression in SPMS patients by targeting cells in the central nervous system causing chronic inflammation. Introducing our new co-host Jamie Holloman MD from The MS Center for Innovations in Care!  Dr. Holloman completed in neurology residency at Washington University, followed by a 3-year fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic.  He interviews: Christopher Laganke MD, Founder of the Joanne P. LaGanke MS Center, Cullman, Alabama Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, St. Louis

    38 min
  7. Mind Over MS: Strategies for Staying Positive

    01/10/2024

    Mind Over MS: Strategies for Staying Positive

    Facing the first symptoms and a new multiple sclerosis diagnosis can be terrifying, leaving you with a flood of questions about your future. How do you navigate your career, relationships, and whether to start a family? The uncertainty can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. Support from loved ones and connections with others living with MS can help light the way. As MS progresses, the mental challenges often intensify. The battle to accept mobility aids—devices that many resist—can feel like a loss, but in reality, they can expand your world. In this episode, we dive deep into the mental strategies to better cope with MS. Two inspiring advocates living with MS describe embracing change, turning their struggles into stories of strength, adaptability and hope. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Ardra Shephard, writer, podcaster and television host based in Toronto, Canada Tyler Campbell, professional inspirational speaker and former college football player from Austin, Texas

    39 min
  8. Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis

    10/09/2024

    Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis

    In this era of highly effective treatments, early intervention for multiple sclerosis can be life changing. However, the wide range of initial symptoms often leads to many people being undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leaving them without the proper care for years. In this podcast episode, we'll discuss the early signs of MS and the key tests, such as specific MRI and spinal fluid results, that are crucial for a timely and accurate diagnosis. Criteria to diagnose MS continues to evolve to help make a diagnosis more swiftly and correctly. Specific MRI findings in the brain and spinal cord can allow for an immediate diagnosis of MS with the first attack. Brand-new updates highlight the role of the optic nerve and even offer a path to diagnosing MS in people who show no neurological symptoms. With so much at stake, a timely and accurate diagnosis of MS is more important than ever. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Xavier Montalban MD PhD, Chair of Neurology, Director of CEMCAT (Multiple Sclerosis Center of Catalonia) at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain   Léorah Freeman MD PhD, Assistant Professor, Dell Medical School Department of Neurology, UT Health Austin Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center

    35 min
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Barry Singer, MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, interviews global expert guests about the latest treatments, innovations and tips for people living with multiple sclerosis.

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