What We Know and What We Don't (yet) Know about Multiple Sclerosis

Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the world, affecting 90,000 Canadians. MS is an autoimmune disease where the individual’s immune system attacks the myelin sheath, a protective coating of the nerves, slowing nerve impulses and resulting in a wide range of unpredictable symptoms, such as fatigue, lack of coordination, impaired sensation, and cognitive impairment. Despite years of research, the cause behind MS is still unknown, and whilst treatment options have improved drastically in the past 30 years, more efficient options, with fewer side effects, are needed. This talk will cover what we know and don't know about MS, recent research in the field, and the therapeutic future of MS.

Erin Evans is a PhD student in the department of Microbiology and Immunology at UBC. She was born in the UK and grew up in New Zealand. Her work focuses on ancient viruses embedded in the human genome and their possible role in causing MS. Outside of the lab, she is a swim coach and champions neurodiversity education, showing that society has room for, and thrives with all neurotypes.