Neurologist Ludwig Kappos has been awarded the 2026 John Dystel Prize for Multiple Sclerosis Research in recognition of his major contributions to understanding and treating multiple sclerosis.
The prestigious $40,000 award, presented jointly by the National MS Society and the American Academy of Neurology, recognises outstanding achievements in MS research. Kappos, based at University Hospital Basel in Switzerland, will formally receive the prize at the American Academy of Neurology annual meeting in Chicago in April, where he is also scheduled to deliver the Dystel Prize lecture.
Kappos has played a central role in the development and evaluation of disease modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis. His work in clinical trials has contributed to the approval of many treatments now widely used in practice, including the introduction of oral therapies and options for progressive forms of the disease, where treatment choices have historically been limited.
Beyond therapeutics, Kappos has significantly influenced how disease progression and disability are assessed in multiple sclerosis. He contributed to the standardisation of the Expanded Disability Status Scale, a key clinical tool used globally to measure disability in MS. He also supported the integration of MRI into routine monitoring, helping to improve the evaluation of disease activity and treatment response.
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His research has further advanced understanding of the mechanisms underlying disease progression, including progression independent of relapse activity. This concept has challenged traditional views by showing that disability can worsen even in the absence of relapses, reshaping how clinicians interpret disease course and progression.
In addition to his scientific achievements, Kappos has led international collaborations and mentored emerging researchers in the field. The Dystel Prize, established in memory of Oscar and Marion Dystel’s son, recognises individuals whose work has had a lasting impact on MS research and care.
This news item has been summarised using AI and checked by humans before publication.
Sources
National MS Society
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