Enhanced axonal metabolism during early natalizumab treatment in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

The considerable clinical effect of natalizumab in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis might be explained by its possible beneficial effect on axonal functioning. In this longitudinal study, the effect of natalizumab on absolute concentrations of total N-acetylaspartate, a marker for neuronal integrity, and other brain metabolites is investigated in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis by using MR spectroscopic imaging.

Materials and methods

In this explorative observational study, 25 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis initiating natalizumab treatment were included and scanned every 6 months for 18 months. Additionally 18 matched patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis continuing treatment

SUBMITTER: Wiebenga OT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8013024 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature