Regenerative medicine for the treatment of MS: Enhancing repair to prevent progression

Front Row lecture with Luke Lairson, PhD

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating autoimmune disease that disrupts the central nervous system, causing symptoms like muscle weakness, cognitive challenges and a gradual loss of function that current treatments cannot fully repair. MS arises when the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, the protective layer insulating neurons. Scripps Research chemistry professor Luke Lairson will discuss his research on the body’s natural repair pathways—specifically those that activate endogenous stem cells to restore myelin. His work aims to develop therapies that complement existing therapeutic approaches and halt MS progression.

Learn more at frontrow.scripps.edu.

About Scripps Research

Committed to unraveling the intricacies of the human body and translating our discoveries into tangible global impact, Scripps Research is consistently ranked among the most influential non-profit research institutes in the world. Throughout our 100-year history, our scientists have expanded the boundaries of scientific understanding and played a pivotal role in the development of over 15 FDA-approved medicines that have impacted the lives of countless individuals worldwide.

The Front Row lecture series, now in its eighth season, offers an exclusive glimpse into groundbreaking scientific discoveries in action. Many of these breakthroughs are the result of years of tireless work—made possible by the support of our community.

As we enter another century of science changing life at Scripps Research, our focus remains the same: fueling world-class fundamental and translational research to accelerate the development of medical advances for the benefit of human health.