Multiple sclerosis

Gray and white are the dominant colors of the nervous system. The neurons are located in the gray matter. Here the impulses from other nerve cells are collected and processed. The result is transmitted to other nerve cells via the white matter, which in turn consists of two components: Firstly, the axons, the long extensions of the nerve cells – they form the output channel in neural communication. But without the second component, the protective myelin sheath around the axons, this communication is painfully slow. If the white matter is damaged, the complex networks of nerve cells are disrupted.

This is exactly what happens in multiple sclerosis (MS). The myelin layer of the axons is attacked, slowing down or completely disrupting transmission. The effects – such as visual disturbances, numb fingers, or impaired motor function – depend on the location of the demyelination. This makes MS difficult to diagnose, as no two patients are alike. The exact causes are still not fully understood. However, it is assumed that a combination of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors leads to the development of the disease.

In cooperation with the non-profit Hertie Foundation and thanks to a generous bequest from Heidemarie Hoppe, we discuss one of the most common neurological diseases here – according to current estimates, there are almost three million patients worldwide. Nora Schultz provides an introduction ▸ Disease of a thousand faces.