Less vitamin D and melatonin bad for multiple sclerosis

Studies untangle dark and light sides of immune disorder

day-night melanin

NIGHT AND DAY  Compounds the body makes in response to darkness and light play roles in the immune disorder multiple sclerosis, new studies show.

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Darkness and light may help prevent multiple sclerosis or fend off its symptoms.

People who genetically produce less vitamin D, a compound normally boosted by sun exposure, have a greater risk of multiple sclerosis, researchers find.