Could MS cure start with brain cells in a dish?
Dr Amy McCaughey-Chapman whose initial research was funded by the New Zealand MS Research Trust explores a groundbreaking approach to finding a cure for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) by utilising brain cells in a dish. By studying MS in a controlled environment, researchers hope to accelerate the discovery of effective therapies and ultimately find a cure […]
ECTRIMS, Barcelona 2025
Report by Graham Walker, October 20th. Note from MSNZ: In September 2025 MSNZ Co-Vice President and person with MS Graham Walker and his wife Julie, travelled to Barcelona to attend the 41st European Committee for the Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS). As an active advocate with a strong interest in science, research and […]
Leveraging Linked Data to Explore Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology
Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand, Multiple Sclerosis Auckland, the New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust, and Rare Disorders NZ supported research conducted by COMPASS Research Centre that leveraged the Stats NZ Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI) to research MS epidemiology. This research was led by Dr Natalia Boven, with the guidance of Associate Professor Vanessa Selak, Dr […]
Research Opportunity for Young Adults
Nikki Singh, a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, is conducting research into the lived experiences of young people with autoimmune diseases. Research summary: Nikki’s research explores how autoimmune diseases impact identity among young adults aged 18 to 30. While often viewed primarily as biological conditions to be managed, autoimmune diseases […]
Our Focus and What’s Next?
Over the last decade, we have seen the needs of people with MS are changing. This is largely due to the availability of higher efficacy DMTs in NZ, and ever-advancing research is also telling us even more about the importance of practical lifestyle modifications to improve health outcomes. As a result, people are continuing to […]
MS Get a Head Start – Online Research Study
MS Get a Head Start are looking for people living with multiple sclerosis to take part in a 6-week online exercise and education programme, as part of a research study with AUT. The good news is that you can complete the programme in the comfort of your own home, on days and times that suit […]
Could a Simple Blood Test Predict MS
In this article published by MS Australia, their research on antibodies shows promise that perhaps a simple blood test could predict MS one day. Using a large US biobank, blood from people with MS was screened before and after MS onset. Approximately 10% of people with MS harboured antibodies that target a specific sequence contained […]
Survey to Understand the Importance of Being Actively Involved in Research
The International Progressive MS Alliance, in collaboration with MS organisations across the world, is conducting a global survey to find out how people affected by MS feel about being involved in research – including being an author of scientific publications. Are you affected by multiple sclerosis (MS)? Do you want people with MS to be credited […]
MSOC Study – now recruiting
Lifestyle factors are known to affect the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). The Multiple Sclerosis Online Course (MSOC) has been developed to deliver a widely accessible and user-friendly educational tool regarding modification of lifestyle related risk factors for people with MS. The intervention consists of arms: 1. An MS Online intervention course based delivering evidence-based information regarding […]
Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand Research Trust 2022 Webinar Series
The New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust have announced the details for their annual webinar series. Registration for their 1st webinar is now open, and can be booked via Event Bright: Celebrating NZ Multiple Sclerosis Researchers Tickets, Sat 03/09/2022 at 9:30 am | Eventbrite Webinar 1 – Celebrating NZ Researchers Booking can be made […]