Ibogaine-induced gait recovery and brain repair in MS and stroke

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is caused by self-reactive immune cells that destroy the fatty substance called myelin which surrounds axons in the brain. Like the rubber insulation on telephone lines, myelin is required for axons to properly transmit electrical signals. Comparable to stripping the rubber insulation from telephone lines, myelin loss impairs communication in the brain. If remyelination fails to occur, axon damage ensues leading to permanent neurological deficits. Despite intense effort, all drug candidates designed to halt MS disease progression by stimulating brain repair have failed. Ibogaine is a psychedelic that produces remarkable neurological recovery in veterans suffering from traumatic brain injuries. Our goal is to determine whether ibogaine also reverses walking deficits in a mouse model of MS by increasing brain repair. Positive outcomes from these studies would encourage the large investment needed to assess the safety and effectiveness of ibogaine in treating MS.

Faculty Supervisor:

George Robertson

Student:

Partner:

Ambio Life Sciences

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

Dalhousie University

Program: