Therapeutic Approaches toward Multiple Sclerosis: Where Do We Stand and Where Are We Headed?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a multifactorial, chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS), characterized by observable lesions, due to an ongoing demyelinating state that can result in severe impairment in both physical and cognitive functions. Currently, treatment options still heavily rely upon disease-modifying treatments that do not treat the underlying cause, rather attempt to suppress and ameliorate the symptoms experienced. However, with the advances in drug delivery methods and therapeutic regimen, newer treatment options have emerged, capable of tackling the demyelinating process of MS. Nanotechnology, cell-based therapies, or novel drug molecules show promising results regarding remyelination of the CNS. It is foreseen that these advances can eventually lead to vast improvements in the quality of life of patients, as well as improving the microenvironment of the CNS.