CCSVI is a reported abnormality in blood drainage from the brain and spinal cord, which may contribute to nervous system damage in MS. This hypothesis was put forth by Dr Paolo Zamboni, from the University of Ferrara in Italy, based on preliminary findings from a study of approximately 65 patients, published in June 2009.

The new studies will carry out significant steps needed to confirm the phenomenon described by Dr Zamboni and resolve the questions raised as to whether CCSVI is a cause of MS or related to MS in some other manner.

If blockages are found, the findings will speed the way to determining whether therapeutic trials to correct them will be helpful in improving or altering the MS disease process.

"We don’t know yet whether CCSVI contributes to MS disease activity, and there have been conflicting data as to the frequency of this condition in people with MS," said National MS Society (NMSS) Chief Medical Advisor Dr Aaron Miller, Professor of Neurology and Medical Director of the MS Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.

"The newly funded studies should bring clarity to the debate, and we should know very soon what this phenomenon means in MS and what the next steps should be."

All research applications underwent a rigorous review process by an international review panel that included experts drawn from disciplines including radiology, vascular surgery and neurology. The two-year grants will begin on 1 July 2010.

Read more, as reported by the NMSS

Read MSIF’s statement on CCSVI