Defining the Best Patient Group for IMMUTOL’s New Cell Therapy: MS Patients Speak Out 

On 25 November 2025, European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP) organised a consultation between the Multiple Sclerosis Community Advisory Board (MSCAB), an expert patient panel and the researchers from the IMMUTOL project, focused on developing a “tolerogenic dendritic cell” (tolDC) therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS). The goal of the meeting was simple but crucial: together, define who should be the first to benefit when this therapy reaches clinical trials. 

A Shared Conclusion: Early-Stage MS First 

After thoughtful discussion and a poll among participants, MSCAB members expressed a clear preference for newly diagnosed or early-stage MS patients as the initial target population. Their reasoning was straightforward: 

• Starting treatment early can prevent relapses and slow down disability progression before irreversible damage occurs. 

• Patients who haven’t yet tried multiple disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) were seen as ideal, because it makes the effect of tolDC therapy easier to evaluate. 

• For many participants, even if they don’t personally take part — –“I’d gladly give my place to someone newly diagnosed,” one member said — – early intervention represents the best hope for long-term disease control. 

Researchers welcomed this input: for antigen-specific therapies like tolDC, immune system responsiveness tends to be higher at early disease stages, which increases the chance to detect clear biological and clinical effects. If successful, the therapy could later be extended to other patient groups with different disease histories. 

More Than Science: Practical Realities Matter 

The consultation did not stop at the biological rationale. Members of MSCAB stressed that real-life concerns must guide trial design. Key practical factors include: 

• Frequency and duration of clinic visits 

• Travel burden and ability to use public transport or drive 

• Need for a clear follow-up schedule from the start 

• Transparency about possible procedures (MRIs, blood tests, contrast agents, etc.) 

• Designated contact person during the study for any questions or concerns 

These demands underline a shared principle: patients are not just trial subjects — they are people with lives, obligations, and needs. 

What’s Next 

The consultation reinforced the commitment to continue engaging patient voices throughout the development process —, ensuring that when the trial begins, it reflects real-world needs and priorities, not just scientific ambitions. 

EMSP will keep everyone informed about next steps. We are grateful to MSCAB members for their honest feedback and real-life perspectives —, this is how science becomes meaningful for people living with MS.