What component of the nerve cells is damaged in MS, leading to the disease's characteristic symptoms?

In multiple sclerosis (MS), the primary component of nerve cells that is damaged is myelin. Myelin is a protective sheath that surrounds nerve fibers and is crucial for the proper conduction of electrical impulses along the nerve cells. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks this myelin, leading to inflammation and the formation of lesions or plaques within the central nervous system.

The loss of myelin disrupts the transmission of signals between the brain and the rest of the body, resulting in a variety of neurological symptoms, such as muscle weakness, coordination problems, and sensory disturbances. The damage to the myelin can also lead to a condition known as "axonal loss," which can further exacerbate symptoms and contribute to the progression of the disease.

Understanding the role of myelin in MS is crucial for recognizing how the disease affects nervous system function and why myelin repair and protection are essential focuses of MS treatment strategies.