Could mathematics be the key to unlocking the mysteries of multiple sclerosis

by Georgia Weatherley, Robyn P Araujo, Samantha J Dando & Adrianne L Jenner

Read the paper

Our review of the existing mathematical models of multiple sclerosis (MS) is designed to highlight the opportunities for mathematics to unlock the mysteries of this disease. Rising in prevalence, MS is an autoimmune, neurodegenerative disease that results in the demyelination of nerve axons and causes physical and cognitive impairment. Existing mathematics models of MS, while limited in volume in comparison to diseases such as cancer and malaria, are diverse and insightful. They range from non-spatial and spatial deterministic models to agent-based models and other stochastic modelling techniques. So far, these models have successfully furthered our understanding of T cell responses, the underlying oscillatory dynamics of the disease, and potential treatment avenues. For mathematical oncologists and immunologists, MS presents a rich and rewarding opportunity to use transferable modelling techniques to shed light on this complex, profoundly heterogeneous disease. This review is a call to arms for the mathematical biology community, complete with a list of open problems that could benefit from a mathematical approach.

Georgia Weatherley is a PhD candidate at Queensland University of Technology, supervised by Adrianne Jenner and Robyn Araujo. This review was written and conceived in collaboration with Samantha Dando. All authors contributed to the writing and editing.