Beyond the division of multiple sclerosis into different subgroups: The Concept of Connectomopathy

TL;DR

The paper introduces the concept of connectomopathy to explain the unique progression of multiple sclerosis in each patient.

Contribution

It proposes MS as a connectomopathy, where individual brain connectivity differences influence disease progression and treatment.

Findings

MS is suggested to be a connectomopathy, where brain connectivity damage drives disease progression.

Individual variations in the connectome challenge traditional MS classification into subgroups.

The concept supports the need for personalized treatment approaches in MS patients.

Abstract

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) pathophysiologically is a dynamic and progressive disease that involves all parts of central nervous system. This widespread involvement of the CNS has paved the way for proposing a new theory in MS in which MS is considered as a connectomopathy. Connectomopathy is a new concept describing the diseases in which not only the brain connectome is completely and extensively damaged, but the defective connectome itself can also become a breeding ground for the disease’s progression. Connectomopathy provides a dynamic picture of MS. Since each person’s connectome is unique to him/herself, so MS patients’ connectomopathy varies from one to another. This variety not only challenges the classification of MS into different phenotypes, but also emphasizes the need for providing a personalized approach for the treatment of these patients.