The Octopus study is funded by the MS Society charity and uses a new multi-arm, multi-stage (MAMS) approach.
This innovative MAMS design means several different treatments can be tested at the same time, rather than having different trials of each therapy one after another, speeding up the process. Progressive MS is a condition which has only two approved therapy options currently.
Paul Elcock, a participant in the trial has lived with MS for most of his life and hopes the Octopus study will improve treatment for people with the condition.
I am keen to help develop any therapies for primary progressive MS that may help people in the future. I have had MS for over 40 years, it completely affects my life. I have carers and I am in a wheelchair full-time. I need someone to help wash, clothe and transfer me to and from bed and feed me. I have very limited use of one hand so even simple tasks, such as, using a phone or keyboard is very limited. I hope the trial is successful in discovering new therapies and diagnostic regimes to treat progressive MS.
Paul Elcock, Octopus study volunteer
Leeds Teaching Hospitals is leading the Yorkshire Hub for Octopus, 1 of 4 hubs in the UK. With 12 participants to the trial already recruited with a target of 25, the trial is nearly halfway towards its target.
Professor Helen Ford, Consultant Neurologist and Honorary Clinical Professor of Neurology at the University of Leeds is leading the Yorkshire hub of the national trial and is optimistic Octopus can lead to new treatments.
I’m really pleased to lead and be Lead for Yorkshire hub at Leeds. This is an exciting new development in MS research and means we can test more new treatments for progressive MS. There is only one licensed treatment for progressive MS, and we need to take up the challenge to find more effective treatments for people living with the condition
Professor Helen Ford, Consultant Octopus study Lead for Yorkshire hub