About this episode

This episode discusses the link between Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis, exploring its implications for treatment and prevention.

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) has become one of the most intensely studied topics in multiple sclerosis research. But how strong is the evidence linking EBV to MS, and could targeting the virus change the future of treatment and prevention? In this episode of the ECTRIMS Podcast, host Brett Drummond speaks with Prof. Gavin Giovannoni and Prof. Tomas Olsson about the evolving science connecting infections, immunity and multiple sclerosis. Together, they explore: Molecular mimicry and how EBV proteins may trigger autoimmune responses Whether EBV contributes to chronic CNS inflammation and disease progression Emerging therapeutic approaches including antivirals, CAR-T cells, and vaccines This conversation examines one of the most important scientific questions in MS research and the therapeutic possibilities that may emerge from it.

People in this episode

Host: Brett Drummond

Guests: Prof. Gavin Giovannoni, Prof. Tomas Olsson

Topics covered

• Epstein-Barr virus
• multiple sclerosis
• autoimmune responses
• chronic CNS inflammation
• therapeutic approaches

Keywords

• EBV
• multiple sclerosis
• autoimmunity
• CNS inflammation
• therapeutics
• antivirals
• CAR-T cells
• vaccines

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Epstein–Barr virus, multiple sclerosis

More episodes of The ECTRIMS Podcast

• How Geography, Healthcare Systems and Access Shape the Multiple Sclerosis Journey · July 16, 2026 · 27 min
• MS Research Briefs: MRI Biomarkers, Machine Learning and the Future of MS Diagnosis · July 2, 2026 · 24 min
• Vitamin D and Multiple Sclerosis: Separating Evidence from Expectation · June 18, 2026 · 31 min
• Can the revised 2024 McDonald Diagnostic criteria solve the misdiagnosis problem in multiple sclerosis? · June 3, 2026 · 33 min

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