Researchers are testing whether an mRNA vaccine targeting Epstein-Barr virus could offer a new treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS).
The Phase 2 trial will examine how the investigational vaccine affects new MS disease activity, with scientists exploring this approach because EBV is present in almost all people with MS and is believed to play a significant role in the condition’s development.
The virus, which commonly causes glandular fever and is contracted by most people by adulthood, remains dormant in the body for life but can reactivate.
Professor David Hunt, national chief investigator for the trial and director of the MS and neuroimmunology hub at the University of Edinburgh’s Anne Rowling Clinic, said: “This is an important and innovative trial to treat multiple sclerosis by targeting EBV infection using a vaccine.
“Currently, almost all of our disease-modifying treatments for multiple sclerosis work by suppressing the body’s immune system.
“The discovery that EBV plays an important role in the development of multiple sclerosis is opening new avenues for treating the condition.
The University of Edinburgh is leading the Horizon trial in the UK, with pharmaceutical firm Moderna sponsoring the research.
Up to 10 UK sites will participate, recruiting patients as part of a global cohort of 180 people.
The mRNA technology works by training the immune system to maintain suppression of the virus.
It teaches the body how to make a specific protein, which the immune system then “remembers” to help prevent EBV from activating and spreading to other cells.
Participants must be aged 18 to 55, have been diagnosed with MS within the past two years, and have EBV. The trial will last around two and a half years.
Beyond treatment, researchers are also considering whether widespread vaccination against EBV could eventually contribute to preventing MS, though further study is required.
Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, chief scientist (health) for the Scottish Government, said: “The partnership between the University of Edinburgh, the National Institute of Health and Care Research and NHS Research Scotland has enabled the UK to be the first country outside the US to open the study, affording more UK patients the choice to participate in the trial.
“That is a vital step which could potentially lead to a significant breakthrough underpinned by Scottish leadership.”
Dr Emma Gray, director of research at the MS Society, said: “MS can be debilitating, exhausting and unpredictable, and existing treatments don’t work for everyone.
“Using mRNA vaccine technology to target a common virus is an exciting and innovative approach to developing new treatment options – and it’s great to see how much momentum has built in recent years toward understanding the role of EBV in MS.
“To see this translated into real opportunities for people with MS to take part in clinical trials is fantastic, and we look forward to hearing the results.”
