Breakthrough Compound Reverses Myelin Loss
Key Takeaways
Researchers identified a compound that helps the brain repair the nerve coating damaged by multiple sclerosis, restoring both myelin and vision in animal models.
Unlike older estrogen-based treatments, these compounds don’t cause hormonal side effects and were optimized to remain active longer and reach the brain more effectively.
A next-generation therapy that helps the brain repair itself.
Key Takeaways
Researchers identified a compound that helps the brain repair the nerve coating damaged by multiple sclerosis, restoring both myelin and vision in animal models.
Unlike older estrogen-based treatments, these compounds don’t cause hormonal side effects and were optimized to remain active longer and reach the brain more effectively.
Scientists built on earlier discoveries showing that estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) supports the survival and repair of myelin-producing cells. Using that foundation, they engineered a new class of chloroindazole-based molecules that selectively activate ERβ without triggering estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), the pathway associated with hormonal side effects seen in some multiple sclerosis treatments.
The treatment restored both structure and function.
In mouse models of autoimmune demyelination, treatment with these ERβ ligands repaired the protective myelin sheath around optic nerve fibers and restored visual responses, demonstrating that the regenerated tissue functioned as it should, which is rare in neurological repair. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that the optimized ERβ ligands were chemically stable, sustained active levels in circulation, and effectively crossed the blood–brain barrier to reach the central nervous system.
Citation
Feri, M., et al. (2025). Chloroindazole based estrogen receptor β ligands with favorable pharmacokinetics promote functional remyelination and visual recovery. Scientific reports, 15(1), 35056. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-20254-9