Thursday, April 8, 2010

Chemistry Seminar "Solving the Multiple Sclerosis Problem"

Colleen Hayes
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Friday, April 9, 2010 in RNS 390 at 3:00 p.m. with refreshments prior to seminar.

"Solving the Multiple Sclerosis Problem"
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a genetically and immunologically complex neurodegenerative disease that often strikes in young adulthood and causes significant disability. The seminar will cover genetic susceptibility to MS, and how a sunlight-linked environmental factor, vitamin D, appears to overcome genetic susceptibility, setting the disease threshold.  The mechanism of action of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 as an inhibitor of rodent MS will also be discussed.  Finally, the seminar will suggest a way forward, translating these new insights into a vitamin D-based action plan for MS disease prevention and treatment.

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