My research focuses on how nutrition and the gut microbiome work together to shape the immune system. I am especially interested in understanding how nutrition affects the balance and function of the gut microbiome, and how these microbes, in turn, influence immune responses and long-term health.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that is influenced by the environment. My work linking nutrition and the gut microbiome will shed light on a major aspect of this environmental influence, providing insight into how dietary factors and gut microbial products can be used to modulate immune responses that drive MS progression and severity.

I have collaborated with many researchers in MS and related fields, and I have been continually intrigued by the complexity of this disease and the strong role that environmental factors appear to play. This scientific challenge has motivated me to become involved in MS research.

One of the most exciting developments in MS research is the growing recognition that diet and gut microbiome can influence disease severity. This discovery is opening new possibilities for improving MS care, such as through strategies like personalised nutrition, probiotics, postbiotics or other microbiome-focused approach. While more research needs to be done, they have the potential to provide safe, accessible and cost-effective additions to existing treatments.

For me, the most rewarding part of research is the constant opportunity to learn and discover. Science evolves quickly, and staying at the forefront of new ideas keeps the work intellectually exciting. However, one of the ongoing challenges is finding the right balance between research and administrative tasks.

I am a proud dad to a puppy Finnish Lapphund! I love the challenge (and the joy) of raising and training him, which is sometimes filled with chaos. True to my nature as a scientist, I can't help but keep a detailed log of his development and daily routines.