New imaging technique could promote early detection of multiple sclerosis

Researchers have recorded how myelin degrades real-time in live mice using a new imaging technique called CARS. In this experiment, the myelin degradation was artificially induced with a compound called lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC). Researchers were able to observe an influx of calcium ions as the myelin began to degrade. This insight could promote early detection of conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Credit: Zina Deretsky, National Science Foundation