Inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the nervous system such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Guillain Barre syndrome (GBS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) are common causes of chronic neurological disability. Current therapies are only partially effective and are limited by both toxicity and cost. Work from this and other research groups indicates that the pathogenesis of MS and GBS involves an autoimmune component, but despite significant advances in the understanding of these autoimmune diseases, the mechanisms responsible for disease initiation and progression remain obscure. Our research closely integrates clinical studies with laboratory experimentation to identify immune mechanisms directly involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases. This approach will allow rapid development of new prognostic/diagnostic tools, and specific therapies to re-establish autoimmune homeostasis or block disease progression.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Brain Bank, located at BMRI, in conjunction with the MS Clinic and basic science laboratories, forms a hub for the different laboratories at the University of Sydney undertaking research into MS as well as for the wider MS research community.

The Multiple Sclerosis Brain Bank recognizes the privilege and responsibility of its role. It receives brain tissue from people with MS who have died, who in bequeathing their tissue for scientific research are making a final gift to others with the disease.