Investigating the potential link between lunar cycle and multiple sclerosis relapses: a call for further studies.

Journal: The Libyan journal of medicine

Volume: 18

Issue: 1

Year of Publication: 2023

Affiliated Institutions:  Tunisian Research Laboratory "Sport Performance Optimisation", (LRSEP) National Center of Medicine and Science in Sport, Tunis, Tunisia. Department of Neurology, (LR SP), Clinical Investigation Centre Neurosciences and Mental Health, Razi University Hospital-, Tunis, LR, Tunisia. Farhat HACHED Hospital, Heart Failure (LRSP) Research Laboratory, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia. ASPETAR, Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Doha, Qatar.

Abstract summary 

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating disease that causes inflammation of the central nervous system, resulting in myelin damage and axon degeneration. Although the cause of MS remains unknown, various factors such as sex, latitude, sun exposure, serum vitamin D levels, Epstein Barr Virus infection, diet, microbiota and ethnicity are being studied for their potential roles in the development of the disease. While chronobiological factors such as circadian rhythm and seasonality have been explored for their potential influence on the onset, exacerbation, and/or relapses of MS, the potential influence of the lunar cycle on MS has yet to be studied. Therefore, the authors of this letter call for future studies to investigate the possible effects of the lunar cycle on MS activity and course, given evidence suggesting that the lunar cycle may affect sleep, fatigue, melatonin secretion, and mood state in humans. A deeper understanding of the chronobiology of MS could have practical implications for the development of chronotherapeutic strategies and the prevention or mitigation of MS relapses, potentially improving the quality of life of MS patients.

Authors & Co-authors:  Yousfi Narimen N Mrabet Saloua S Ben Saad Helmi H Chamari Karim K

Study Outcome 

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Citations :  Friese MA, Schattling B, Fugger L.. Mechanisms of neurodegeneration and axonal dysfunction in multiple sclerosis. Nat Rev Neurol. 2014. Apr;10(4):225–4. doi: 10.1038/nrneurol.2014.37
Authors :  4
Identifiers
Doi : 2238354
SSN : 1819-6357
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Humans
Other Terms
Chronotherapy;circadian rhythm;environmental exposures;moon cycle;neurological disorders;quality of life
Study Design
Cross Sectional Study
Study Approach
Country of Study
Publication Country
United States