Conference Coverage

Research highlights the use of neurofilament light chain as a biomarker


 

REPORTING FROM ECTRIMS 2018

Recent research has pointed to a role for measuring neurofilament light (Nf-L) chain levels to predict disease severity in multiple sclerosis (MS). Several papers presented at the annual congress of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis in Berlin will describe new developments on the topic.

A highlighted session on the congress’s last day explores recent development in progressive MS. While much of the research on using Nf-L as a biomarker focuses on relapsing remitting MS, researchers from University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland, and Novartis used data from placebo-controlled, phase 3 trials of fingolimod (INFORMS) and siponimod (EXPAND) to learn how to use biomarkers to track brain atrophy in patients with primary and secondary progressive MS. Hear the results from lead researcher Jens Kuhle, MD, in Hall A at 10:30 a.m. (local time) on Friday, Oct. 12.

Nf-L also is being looked at as a way to suss out treatment failure. Researchers with the Swiss MS Cohort Study will present their study of Nf-L as a biomarker of suboptimal treatment response in patients with relapsing remitting MS on established disease-modifying therapy. Their findings will be presented by Özguer Yaldizli, MD, also of University Hospital, also in Hall A, at 8:30 a.m. (local time) on Friday, Oct. 12.

Follow #ECTRIMS2018 on Twitter to see live highlights and perspective from researchers and meeting attendees.

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