Global MS Research
Multiple sclerosis (MS) research is a global effort, with scientists, clinicians, and organisations around the world working together to understand the causes, improve treatments, and ultimately find a cure for MS. New Zealand plays an active role in this international community, contributing data, expertise, and insights that benefit people with MS both locally and globally.
Research into the understanding, treatment, management and ultimately cure of MS is advancing all the time. With breakthroughs regularly announced, research is helping to pave the way to brighter futures for people affected by MS.
MSNZ recommends and trusts the following sources of information about MS Research:
New Zealand’s Role in International MS Research
New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust
The NZMSRT aims to stimulate, co-ordinate and support New Zealand-based research
MS Australia
MS Australia is the largest not-for-profit organisation dedicated to funding and coordinating MS research in Australia, as part of the worldwide effort to unravel the complexity of MS. The primary mission is to accelerate research towards the prevention, better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for MS.
To accomplish this since establishment in 2004, MS Research Australia has invested nearly $32 million into major collaborative research platforms, and investigator led research projects.
The International Progressive MS Alliance
A global collaboration of MS organisations, researchers, clinicians, pharmaceutical companies, and people with progressive MS, transforming the landscape of multiple sclerosis.
MSTranslate
MSTranslate aims to curate and aggregate the wealth of information available on multiple sclerosis (MS) in a way that makes it accessible to every element of the community by:
- keeping people living with MS informed of scientific developments in research & treatment
- facilitating interaction between members of the MS community
- ensuring a responsible independent approach is taken to the reporting of news & developments
Global Collaboration:
- New Zealand researchers collaborate with international partners, sharing data and best practice to advance MS research.
- Participation in global studies helps ensure that findings are relevant and applicable to the New Zealand context.
MS Base Registry:
- New Zealand is part of the MSBase international registry, which collects anonymised data from people with MS in over 30 countries.
- This registry allows New Zealand neurologists and researchers to compare treatment outcomes and disease progression across different populations and healthcare systems.
International Research Alliances:
- New Zealand is involved in global research initiatives, such as the International Progressive MS Alliance, which brings together organisations, researchers, and people with MS to accelerate progress in understanding and treating progressive forms of MS.
Data Sharing and Standardisation:
- By contributing to international databases, New Zealand helps to standardise research methods and improve the quality and reliability of MS research worldwide.
Other New Zealand funders of MS Research
Centre for Brain Research
The Institute is home to a number of important research projects and provides valuable research opportunities for many students and researchers from a variety of partner institutions, such as the University of Otago, University of Canterbury, and the Canterbury District Health Board. They also work closely with partner community organisations, such as the Neurological Foundation and the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
The Neurological Foundation
Research funded by the Foundation since 1972 has given neurologists a greater understanding of conditions such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, motor neurone diseases, stroke, multiple sclerosis, ALS, migraine, epilepsy, dementia, traumatic brain injury and dozens of other debilitating conditions. The work of many researchers and clinicians funded by the Foundation has led to numerous ground-breaking discoveries and better understanding of neurological conditions.
New Zealand Brain Research Institute
The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Research group was formed in 2005 by a collaboration of neurologists and researchers working at Christchurch Hospital and the Universities of Otago and Canterbury.
Benefits of International Research for New Zealand
Access to Cutting-Edge Knowledge
New Zealand researchers and clinicians can access the latest findings and innovations from around the world, ensuring that people with MS in New Zealand benefit from global advances.
Improved Treatment Options
International research helps identify effective treatments and best practices, which can be adapted for use in New Zealand.
Enhanced Understanding of MS
Collaboration with international partners helps to uncover new insights into the causes, risk factors, and progression of MS, informing local research and care.
How New Zealand Contributes?
Participation in Clinical Trials
New Zealanders with MS may have the opportunity to participate in international clinical trials, contributing to the development of new treatments.
Sharing Local Data
New Zealand’s unique population and health data systems provide valuable information for international research projects.
Advocacy and Policy Influence
Through international partnerships, New Zealand advocates for policies and practices that improve the lives of people with MS worldwide.
Looking Ahead
By continuing to engage with international research networks, New Zealand will help shape the future of MS care and research, ensuring that the needs and experiences of people with MS in Aotearoa are represented on the global stage.