The Melanoma Cell Adhesion Molecule

a Potential Therapeutic Target for Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disease characterized by inflammation and neurodegeneration, with a cause that remains largely unknown. A commonly prescribed treatment is fingolimod; however, while this treatment may be effective at reducing the progressive accumulation of disability, there are serious implications associated with its prolonged use. Many potential alternatives are currently being researched, including the possible use of the melanoma cell adhesion molecule (MCAM) as a future therapeutic target. With her faculty mentor Dr. Neil Haave, Alexandra explored the existing research on MCAM and its function in inflammatory diseases such as MS will be explored; based on her research she then proposed a potential next step in MCAM research.