Multiple sclerosis is a long-term condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain and spinal cord. While we don’t yet know exactly what causes it, both genetics and environmental factors, including gut health, are thought to play a role.
Recent research has found that people with MS often have an imbalance in their gut bacteria. This imbalance may lower the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are helpful molecules produced when gut bacteria digest dietary fibre. SCFAs like acetate, propionate, and butyrate are known to help calm the immune system and reduce inflammation.
This project will explore how SCFAs affect immune cells in people with MS. Dr Parkin and her team will collect blood samples from people with and without MS. Immune cells from these blood samples will be exposed to SCFAs to see how they respond. This will help to understand whether SCFAs can shift immune cells toward a more balanced, less inflammatory state.
By studying how SCFAs influence immune cells, this research could point to new supportive strategies, such as safe, fibre-based dietary supplements, to help manage immune activity and improve outcomes for people living with MS.
$25,000
2026
1 year
Current project
