Student: Jacob Koudys

Type of Project: Translational, Clinical Trial, Mind and body

Institutions Affiliated: University of Victoria

Supervisor: Dr. Jodie Gawryluk

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune cells attack the central nervous system, in particular white matter. This study used functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to examine the integrity of white matter in the brain following a physical activity intervention to test if changes in the brain are associated with decreased symptoms. 

Impact: Physical activity has been proposed as treatment for MS, but there is inconclusive evidence for its ability to alter the disease course. This project will address that gap using neuroimaging to better understand the impact of physical activity on the disease course of MS.