GlcNAc, otherwise known as N-acetylglucosamine, shows promise in studies for being able to combat some of the effects of MS and other diseases. One study, published online in The Journal of Biological Chemistry, focused on research performed by researchers at UC Irvine.

The supplement is more effective than and similar to glucosamine. In MS patients, central nervous system tissues that normally protect and insulate nerves are attacked by and broken down by abnormal T-cells that tell the immune system to do so. In the study, these actions were inhibited.

Although not well understood previously, recent studies have shown that complex sugars can modify proteins on the surface of cells, including T-cells. Using mouse models wherein mice with MS-like autoimmune diseases were studied, the team was able to suppress the hyperactivity of the T-cells by giving GlcNAc to mice with leg weakness.

“This sugar-based supplement corrects a genetic defect that induces cells to attack the body in MS,” said Demetriou, Associate Professor of Neurology and Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, “making metabolic therapy a rational approach that differs significantly from currently available treatments.”

For more information about this study, please visit http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/235342.php.