The exact triggers that cause Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Disease (MOGAD) are currently not known. While the specific origin remains elusive, it is understood that MOGAD is an autoimmune disorder.
Understanding MOGAD as an Autoimmune Disorder
In autoimmune conditions like MOGAD, the body's immune system, which is normally responsible for fighting off infections and foreign invaders, mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues.
For individuals with MOGAD, this misdirected immune response specifically targets and destroys myelin.
- What is Myelin? Myelin is a crucial fatty substance that acts as an insulating sheath. It coats and protects nerve fibers, allowing electrical signals to travel rapidly and efficiently throughout the nervous system.
- Where is Myelin Attacked in MOGAD? In MOGAD, the immune system primarily damages myelin in critical areas, including:
- The optic nerve (affecting vision)
- The brain
- The spinal cord
This destruction of myelin disrupts the normal communication pathways of the nerves, leading to the various neurological symptoms associated with MOGAD. Despite extensive research, what initiates this autoimmune attack in the first place remains an active area of study.
