Researchers at the University of Bristol, who have described the new study results as an "important breakthrough" - researchers have discovered how to stop cells from attacking healthy body tissue.
In a mouse model of MS, the research team discovered how cells convert from being aggressive to protecting against disease, rather than the body's immune system destroying its own tissue by mistake.
Lead research Professor David Wraith at the Bristol University said: "These findings have important implications for the many patients suffering from autoimmune conditions that are currently difficult to treat."
The treatment approach is currently undergoing clinical development through biotechnology company Apitope, a spin-out from the University of Bristol. These are encouraging results and further work will be needed to test this approach in people with Multiple Sclerosis.
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