Garvan researchers are investigating the root causes of multiple sclerosis, focusing on immune system dysfunction and viral triggers. Our work aims to uncover new treatment approaches for this complex neurological condition.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease that affects the central nervous system. It occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the protective myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibres, disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body. This damage can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including difficulties with movement, vision and cognitive function.

While the exact cause of MS remains unknown, several factors may increase the risk of developing the condition:

Although there is no cure for MS, some treatments can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. These include:

Make a donation to support our ongoing research projects

Participate in clinical trials or research studies

Raise awareness of MS and the need for research funding

How you can contribute to MS research

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More than 33,000 people in Australia are living with MS

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Women are three times more likely to develop MS than men

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MS is the most common neurological disease affecting young adults

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MS affects 2.8 million people worldwide

Did you know?

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Open Coast-to-Coast Australian Multiple Sclerosis (OCCAMS) consortium

A multidisciplinary team investigating the link between MS and the Epstein-Barr virus.

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HOPE Research Program

The HOPE Research Program is studying how immune tolerance breaks down in autoimmune diseases like MS.

At Garvan, our researchers are working on several fronts to better understand and treat MS.

Multiple sclerosis research at Garvan

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Medical Minds podcast - S3E3 New hope for multiple sclerosis

In this episode, you’ll meet Dr Seyhan Yazar and Professor Tri Phan who are working to better manage, treat and prevent MS.

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Public seminar - A new hope for multiple sclerosis

View our seminar on an Australia-wide study to develop better ways to detect, prevent and treat multiple sclerosis.

Hear from the researchers

Two-photon microscope image showing tingible body macrophages (a type of immune cell, in red) evenly dispersed to grab dead and dying B cells (green) inside a lymph node

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Intravital Microscopy and Gene Expression (IMAGE) Lab

Our lab uses intravital microscopy to study B cells in immunity, autoimmunity and cancer.

Microscopy showing the immune system’s T cells (green) helping B cells (in the red zone) to make antibody responses inside the spleen.

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Lymphocyte Signalling and Activation Lab

Our lab studies the signals that control immune responses.



Related labs and groups

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A chronic neurological disease that occurs when the immune system damages the tissue around nerves