Multiple sclerosis [MS] is a disease that targets the central nervous system causing dysfunction in the area(s) of the brain it attacks. Use the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation webpage, along with your text reading to learn about the disease and its impact. Write a 750-1100 word paper in APA format describing what MS does to the neuronal tissue in the brain. Include information about the following:

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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, known as the myelin sheath. This results in inflammation, demyelination, and damage to the neuronal tissue in the brain.

Here are some key points to consider when discussing what MS does to neuronal tissue in the brain:

1. Inflammation: In MS, immune cells infiltrate the brain tissue, leading to an inflammatory response. This inflammation contributes to the destruction of myelin and can damage the underlying neuronal tissue. Chronic inflammation can also affect other cells present in the central nervous system, such as astrocytes and microglia.

2. Demyelination: The myelin sheath serves as insulation around nerve fibers, allowing for efficient transmission of electrical signals. In MS, immune cells attack and damage the myelin, leading to demyelination. This disrupts the normal propagation of nerve signals, resulting in impaired communication within the central nervous system.

3. Axonal Injury: Beyond the demyelination, neuronal tissue can also be directly affected in MS. Axons, the long extensions of neurons, can be injured due to the inflammatory processes occurring in the brain. This axonal injury can result in disruptions in signal transmission and impair the function of affected neural pathways.

4. Scarring and Lesions: As a consequence of the inflammatory processes and demyelination, scar tissue or lesions known as scleroses can form in the affected areas of the brain. These lesions represent areas of damaged and repaired neural tissue. Over time, the accumulation of scars and lesions can lead to further disruption and dysfunction in neural networks.

5. Neurodegeneration: In progressive forms of MS, the ongoing inflammation and neuronal damage can result in neurodegeneration. Neurodegeneration refers to the progressive loss of neurons and their connections, leading to a decline in brain function. This can manifest as cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, and other neurological symptoms.

Understanding the specific mechanisms of how MS affects neuronal tissue is essential for developing effective treatments and interventions. Researchers are continuously investigating the disease to unravel the complexities and develop strategies to protect and repair the damaged neuronal tissue.

Remember, while this information provides a general overview, it is important to consult reliable sources such as scientific articles, medical journals, and reputable organizations like the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation to gather more comprehensive and up-to-date information on the topic.