Podcast
MS Living Well: Key Info from Multiple Sclerosis Experts
Hosted by Barry Singer, MD · EN
Barry Singer, MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, interviews global expert guests about the latest treatments, innovations and tips for people living with multiple sclerosis.
14episodes
Episodes
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Beyond White Spots: Rethinking MRI in MS
3d ago00:38:53Summary readyMRI scans can reveal far more than just "white spots." New imaging techniques are uncovering hidden inflammation, silent disease activity, and smoldering lesions that may continue damaging the brain even when someone feels stable and routine MRI scans appear unchanged. This episode explores how MRI is evolving from a diagnostic tool into a window into the underlying biology of multiple sclerosis. We discuss why spinal cord imaging can sometimes reveal disease missed in the brain, how the "central vein sign" may help prevent MS misdiagnosis, and why brain shrinkage remains difficult to measure reliably in individuals living with multiple sclerosis. The conversation also dives into some of the most exciting frontiers in MS imaging including myelin repair, functional MRI, and how artificial intelligence could dramatically improve the speed and precision of MRI scans in the future. Barry Singer, MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Anthony Traboulsee, MD, Professor of Neurology, University of British Columbia and Director of the UBC MS/MRI Research Group in Vancouver Frederik Barkhof, MD, PhD, Professor of Neuroradiology, Amsterdam UMC and University College London
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Handling MS: Word-Finding and Memory Strategies
3w ago00:40:33Summary readyCognitive changes are a common part of living with multiple sclerosis, but they can be confusing and frustrating. Many people feel like their memory is slipping, when in reality, the challenge is often with accessing information—especially in the moment. Forgetting why you walked into a room or struggling to find the right word in conversation are very real experiences in MS, and they're more about how the brain processes and retrieves information than a loss of intelligence or knowledge. New insights are helping us better understand why this happens, including the role of inflammation and how today's treatments may be helping keep cognition more stable over time. In this episode, Dr. James Sumowski breaks down what's happening in the brain, including why word-finding problems are so common and what "working memory" really means in everyday life. Speech-language pathologist Dr. Marissa Barrera then shares practical, easy-to-use strategies to support memory and communication from simple ways to make information more memorable, to talking around a missing word, and creating routines that reduce mental overload. Together, they offer both clarity and actionable tools to help you think more clearly, communicate more confidently, and navigate cognitive challenges day to day. Barry Singer, MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: James F. Sumowski, PhD, Associate Professor of Neurology at the Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York Marissa Barrera, PhD, MSCS, CCC-SLP, Assistant Dean of Health Sciences, Katz School of Science and Health, Yeshiva University, New York
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The Science of MS Supplements
Nov 1800:36:43Summary readyMany people living with multiple sclerosis are interested in whether vitamins, supplements, or nutrition can play a supportive role in long-term brain and immune health. Two areas that have received growing research attention are alpha-linolenic acid, a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid found in foods like flaxseed and walnuts, and vitamin D, a hormone-like nutrient involved in immune regulation that is often low in people with MS. With so much information online, it can be difficult to know what is truly supported by research versus what is based on personal stories or assumption. New studies are helping us understand these topics more clearly. We explore new insights from large-scale cohort studies and randomized clinical trials assessing the potential role of alpha-linolenic acid and high-dose vitamin D supplementation in early MS. Biomarker-based findings show an association between higher alpha-linolenic acid levels and reduced relapse risk and disability progression over long-term follow-up. The D-Lay MS trial demonstrated a reduction in disease activity in people living with MS receiving high-dose vitamin D early in their condition. Jamie Holloman MD, neurologist at The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Marianna Cortese MD PhD, Senior Research Scientist, Department of Nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Professor Éric Thouvenot, Head of the Neurology Department, Nîmes University Hospital, France
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Reengineering Hope: CAR-T Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis
Oct 1400:44:08Summary readyCAR-T therapy, short for chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, is already transforming treatment for blood cancers like lymphoma and leukemia and is now being tested in early trials for multiple sclerosis. In this approach, a person's own T cells (or sometimes donor T cells) are collected and reengineered in the lab with a special "chimeric" receptor on their surface. Once infused back into the body, these "designer" T cells can specifically hunt down B cells, including those hiding in the brain and spinal cord that may drive progressive MS. This is a key difference since current B-cell depleting antibody treatments don't reach effectively into the central nervous system. Like any powerful therapy, CAR-T is not without risks. Side effects can include serious infections, cytokine release syndrome (fever, chills, body aches), and even neurological symptoms like confusion or seizures. Still, the early results in MS patients are remarkable, bringing fresh hope for those with progressive disease. Beyond MS, CAR-T is being explored across autoimmune neurological diseases from myasthenia gravis to stiff person syndrome, opening a promising new frontier in care. Barry Singer MD, Director of the MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Jeffrey Dunn MD, Clinical Professor and Chief of Neuroimmunology in the Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences at Stanford University Amanda Piquet MD, Professor of Neurology and Céline Dion Foundation Endowed Chair at the University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine
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Repairing MS: The Quest to Rebuild Myelin
Sep 900:39:30Summary readyThe quest to repair the damage caused by multiple sclerosis is gaining momentum, with scientists working to restore lost function and slow progression by rebuilding myelin—the protective coating of nerve cells. Within the brain and spinal cord, immature myelin-making cells called OPCs hold promise, but need the right signals to mature into oligodendrocytes and repair MS lesions. Researchers are also studying the role of microglia, the immune cells that clear debris but can turn destructive, with drugs like BTK inhibitors potentially tilting them toward repair. Early attempts at remyelination drugs such as opicinumab and elezanumab showed promise in animals but ultimately failed in human trials, underscoring the challenge. Still, reasons for optimism are emerging: clemastine, a common antihistamine, showed signs of remyelination in optic neuritis, while PIPE-307—a compound inspired by green mamba snake venom—is in Phase 2 trials. Even novel approaches like gold nanoparticles are being studied to boost oligodendrocyte energy and repair capacity. The path is complex, but progress is accelerating—bringing remyelination therapies closer to becoming a real option for people living with MS. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Veronique Miron PhD, MS Research Chair at St. Michael's Hospital and Professor of Immunology at The University of Toronto Robert Glanzman MD, Board-certified neurologist and Chief Medical Officer of Find Therapeutics
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Parenting with MS: Finding Strength, Joy, and Resilience
Aug 1900:31:36Summary readyParenting can be both a beautiful adventure and a demanding test. For those living with multiple sclerosis, the joys of raising children often come with added challenges—fatigue, changes in routine, and questions about how MS may affect family life. Despite these obstacles, many parents with MS find that their journey brings deeper meaning, resilience, and joy. In this podcast episode, we'll explore the unique challenges and strengths of parenting with MS. From managing invisible symptoms to navigating conversations with children, our guests share their expertise and experience to provide guidance and encouragement for families. Dr. Jamie Holloman, neurologist at the MS Center for Innovations in Care at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, interviews: Amy Sullivan PsyD, Clinical Health Psychologist, Director of Behavioral Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis. Julie Stamm, MS advocate and author of Some Days: A Tale of Love, Ice Cream, and My Mom's Chronic Illness.
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Repair, Reset, Reimagine: Stem Cell Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis
Jul 2200:45:40Summary readyStem cells have the extraordinary ability to transform into different types of cells and renew themselves—offering new hope in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. One of the most advanced approaches—autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT)—involves collecting a patient's own bone marrow stem cells, using chemotherapy to wipe out their faulty immune system, and then reinfusing the stem cells to help rebuild it. A more aggressive "myeloablative" approach can effectively halt relapses and new MRI activity but carries serious risks, including life-threatening infections. A gentler "immunoablative" method reduces these risks but allows for a return of MS activity in up to 25% of patients. AHSCT is typically reserved for younger individuals with aggressive relapsing disease and moderate or milder disability. Mesenchymal stem cells—derived from fat, bone marrow support tissue, or dental pulp—have shown mixed results. A large international trial found no benefit when delivered intravenously, although the treatment was safe. However, a smaller study using repeated injections into the spinal fluid showed disease stabilization in most participants. New research is now exploring neural stem cells, which may help protect and repair the brain and spinal cord. A recent Phase 1 trial involving 15 people with secondary progressive MS found reduced inflammation in blood and spinal fluid markers and less brain shrinkage on MRI scans following neural stem cells given into the spinal fluid spaces of the brain. Tune in as we unpack the science, the risks, and the exciting future of stem cell therapies in MS. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Stefano Pluchino MD PhD, Clinical Professor of Regenerative Neuroimmunology, Honorary Consultant in Neurology, University of Cambridge, UK Mark Freedman MD, Professor of Medicine in the field of neurology, University of Ottawa, and Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Research Unit, Ottawa Hospital, Canada
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Beyond the Prescription Pad: Complementary and Alternative Medicine for MS
Jul 100:40:50Summary readyMost people living with multiple sclerosis explore complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) as part of their care. Complementary therapies—such as supplements, special diets, or mind-body practices—are used alongside disease-modifying treatments (DMTs), while alternative therapies are chosen instead of them. In this episode, we dive into commonly used CAM approaches, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplements like turmeric and alpha-lipoic acid, as well as dietary strategies like the Mediterranean diet, intermittent fasting, and modified paleo. We also explore mind-body therapies—yoga, stretching, Pilates, and meditation—that may reduce stress, enhance well-being, and even lower inflammation. Plus, we examine alternative treatments such as low-dose naltrexone (LDN), CCSVI procedures, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, along with the potential risks of bypassing conventional care. Thoughtfully chosen and openly discussed with your healthcare team, CAM can play a meaningful supportive role in living well with MS. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Elizabeth Silbermann MD, MS Regional Director, VA Portland Health Care System and Assistant Professor of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University. Daniel Bandari MD, Medical Director and the Founder of the Multiple Sclerosis Center of California Clinic and Research Group, Laguna Hills, Orange County, California and Clinical Assistant Professor of Neurology and Neuro-immunology, University of Southern California
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Boosting Brain Health: Blueprint for MS
Jun 1000:35:40Summary readyLiving with multiple sclerosis brings unique challenges to brain health, but there are powerful steps you can take to support and protect your mind. Exercise not only improves endurance and reduces fatigue, but also helps rewire brain networks to promote resilience. Restorative sleep is essential, as it helps clear inflammation in the brain—so addressing disrupted sleep is a must. Nourish yourself with fruits and vegetables while cutting out sugary drinks and highly processed meats. Strengthen your social connections and lean on your support circle. When it comes to managing stress, discover what works best for you, whether it's music, yoga, meditation, or a favorite hobby. MS can cause the brain to shrink faster than normal—a process called atrophy—so protecting your brain reserves is crucial. Starting with effective disease-modifying therapy is key, but it doesn't stop there. Keep your brain engaged by reading, learning a new language, or picking up an instrument. If you smoke, creating a plan to quit is one of the most important steps you can take to reduce physical and cognitive decline. While MS can be unpredictable, you have the power to shape your brain health and preserve what matters most. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Lisa Doggett MD MPH, family and lifestyle medicine physician, UT Health Austin's Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center Augusto Miravalle MD, Professor and Chief of the Multiple Sclerosis Center, Rush University, Chicago
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Secondary Progressive MS: Next Chapter
May 20, 202500:37:47Summary readyFiguring out if your multiple sclerosis is changing from the relapsing remitting to the secondary progressive stage can be murky. Signs of progression are discussed like slower walking and worsening memory. The underlying reasons for progression are revealed including nervous system injury, remyelination failure, chronic inflammation and aging. Practical ways to improve progressive symptoms are shared. Successful trials for disease-modifying therapy for secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) are highlighted. Tolebrutinib, under expedited review by the FDA, has been shown to slow down progression in SPMS patients by targeting cells in the central nervous system causing chronic inflammation. Introducing our new co-host Jamie Holloman MD from The MS Center for Innovations in Care! Dr. Holloman completed in neurology residency at Washington University, followed by a 3-year fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic. He interviews: Christopher Laganke MD, Founder of the Joanne P. LaGanke MS Center, Cullman, Alabama Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, St. Louis
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