
MS Innovation Program Launch
Announcing the launch of the MS Innovation Program at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute, a transformative initiative led by renowned MS experts Drs. Wee Yong and Sarah Morrow. This program unites a dynamic, interdisciplinary team committed to advancing MS research, enhancing patient care, and fostering meaningful patient engagement. The MS Innovation Program bridges scientific discovery with clinical excellence to address critical knowledge gaps in multiple sclerosis. By focusing on repairing damage, reversing symptoms, and restoring function, the program is set to deliver bold, new approaches that improve the lives of those affected by MS.
As Innovators in MS Research and Care, we are committed to translating cutting-edge science into real-world solutions—enhancing outcomes through collaboration, education, and compassionate care.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. The central nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve, which means MS can affect vision, memory, balance and mobility. The severity, duration and disability associated with MS fluctuates and can vary person to person It can also be progressive, and be interspersed with periods of wellness.
MS research is a long-standing focus area at the University of Calgary and at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute, where basic and clinical researchers support a cyclical process of discovery and translation, contributing to new treatments for people living with MS.
If you would like to contribute to further research on causes and treatments of multiple sclerosis, please visit our donation page.
Groundbreaking Research
Promising results for the generic drug hydroxychloroquine when used to reduce the worsening of disability of primary progressive MS (PPMS).
Quick Facts

Research Highlights
- Common Acne Medication Affective in Early-Stage MS
This study shows that minocycline, a common acne medication, can slow the progress of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) in people who have recently experienced their first symptoms. Read the full study in the New England Journal of Medicine here. - Discovery of Microglia Action on Multiple Sclerosis Lesions
Oxidized phosphatidylcholines found in multiple sclerosis lesions mediate neurodegeneration and are neutralized by microglia. Read the full study in Nature Neuroscience here. - The Immune System has Benefits that May Be Harnessed for Recovery
The benefits of neuroinflammation for the repair of the injured central nervous system, as indicated in multiple sclerosis, traumatic spine injury and Alzheimer’s. Read the full article in Nature Cellular and Molecular Biology here.