When I’m not researching MS, you will likely find me researching the possible destinations for my next wildlife safari!

I first learnt about MS when our school librarian was diagnosed with MS and had become wheelchair bound. I recall participating in annual MS “readathons” to raise awareness and funds for this debilitating disease. As an adult, seeing such a huge social and economic burden with far too many young adults in the most productive phase of their lives being struck down by their own immune system (which is actually attempting to protect them!) gives me great motivation to work towards understanding this dysregulation of the immune system in MS and how this can be treated and ultimately, prevented.

The global effort over many years by the International MS Genetics Consortium (IMSGC) has identified over 200 genetic variants that increase a person’s risk of developing MS. These risk genes now require further study to identify their role in MS and how they may be targeted as MS therapies.

Our research focuses on studying the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and its connection to MS. We are particularly interested in how EBV interacts with genetic risk factors to influence the severity of MS. By using Lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) derived from natural virus infections, we aim to observe the differences in cellular characteristics between MS patients who carry the risk allele and those who do not. This approach could provide valuable insights into the development and progression of MS.

This research is crucial because it aims to uncover the complex relationship between EBV and MS, potentially leading to new treatment strategies. By understanding how EBV affects individuals with specific genetic variants, we hope to improve clinical measures and outcomes for MS patients. Ultimately, this could enhance our overall understanding of MS and improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

I enjoy the whole process of designing a set of experiments to address an important research question, working as part of a team to conduct the experiments, analysing the results (my favourite part!) and disseminating the results to the broader research community. The biggest challenge is that for every one experiment you complete, you uncover so many new research questions that need to be answered, "the more I learn, the less I know". The great thing though is that this cycle does result in advances in our understanding, that collectively can be synthesised to build towards better treatments and ultimately cures for MS and other autoimmune conditions.