Breakthrough Discovery Reveals How MS Causes Neuron Death

New research from top universities sheds light on a previously overlooked aspect of multiple sclerosis.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:10am by Ben Kaplan

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An ethereal, translucent X-ray photograph showing the intricate structure of a neuron, with its delicate axons and dendrites visible as glowing lines against a dark background, conceptually representing the neuron damage caused by multiple sclerosis.A ghostly X-ray image of a neuron, highlighting the fragile architecture that is vulnerable to the damaging effects of multiple sclerosis.San Francisco Today

A groundbreaking study has uncovered the mechanism behind neuron death in the brains of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, opening up a new avenue for treatment. Researchers found that inflammation leads to DNA damage in neurons expressing the CUX2 gene, particularly during early brain development. This discovery highlights the importance of protecting these vulnerable 'canary in the coal mine' neurons to contain the disease's progression.

Why it matters

This study represents a significant advancement in understanding MS, which has long focused on the loss of myelin insulation around brain wiring. By revealing the parallel and equally devastating process of neuron death in the brain's gray matter, scientists can now develop targeted therapies to directly protect these vulnerable cells and potentially slow the progression of the disease.

The details

The study, conducted by researchers from UC San Francisco, the University of Cambridge, and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, found that inflammation in the brain leads to DNA damage in neurons expressing the CUX2 gene. This damage is particularly critical during early brain development when these neurons are under immense stress. The CUX2 neurons rely on a mechanism to repair their DNA, but when this system breaks down, it can lead to brain damage and the formation of gray matter lesions in MS patients.

  • The study was published on April 10, 2026.

The players

Steve Fancy

A professor at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

David Rowitch

A professor at the University of Cambridge.

Stephen Hauser

A professor at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

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What they’re saying

“It's become clear that in addition to promoting remyelination in progressive MS, it's essential to find ways to directly protect grey matter neurons themselves.”

— Steve Fancy, Professor, UCSF

“The CUX2 neurons are like a 'canary in the coal mine' for the brain affected by MS. If we can protect these neurons, we might be able to contain the damage before the disease progresses.”

— David Rowitch, Professor, University of Cambridge

“We've had remarkable success developing therapies to slow the loss of myelin during MS, but grey matter lesions and the disability they cause have been harder to address.”

— Stephen Hauser, Professor, UCSF

What’s next

Researchers plan to continue studying the CUX2 neurons and explore ways to directly protect them, which could lead to new targeted therapies for multiple sclerosis.

The takeaway

This breakthrough discovery on the role of neuron death in multiple sclerosis opens up a promising new direction for research and treatment, complementing existing efforts to address the loss of myelin insulation. By focusing on protecting the vulnerable CUX2 neurons, scientists hope to find ways to contain the disease's progression and improve outcomes for those affected by MS.