MS mystery unraveled: brain scans meet autopsy in landmark study

NCT ID NCT02659956

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study follows 250 adults with multiple sclerosis (or similar conditions) for years, using yearly MRI scans and other tests to track brain and spinal cord changes. After a participant passes away, researchers examine donated brain and spinal cord tissue to see how the MRI findings match actual damage. The goal is to better understand how MS progresses and to improve future diagnosis and treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this study could reveal how MS damages the brain and spinal cord over time, pointing toward better ways to track and treat the disease.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It requires participants to agree to autopsy, which may limit enrollment. Results may take many years to emerge.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

multiple sclerosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
RECRUITING

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.