In this episode, Brent speaks with Dr. David Hafler, a pioneering neurologist and immunologist whose research helped establish multiple sclerosis as an autoimmune disease and reshape how it's treated today. Drawing on decades of work at both Harvard and Yale, Dr. Hafler explains the emerging evidence connecting Epstein-Barr virus to MS, why certain genetic profiles may leave people unable to fully clear the virus, and how early intervention has transformed outcomes for many patients. The conversation also covers how inflammation works, why autoimmune diseases may be an evolutionary tradeoff, and what researchers are beginning to uncover about the links between the gut, brain, and neurodegenerative disease. They also explore the surprising role of salt in inflammatory responses, the promise of new Parkinson's prevention trials, and why Hafler believes we may be entering a golden age of medical science. He's a wonderful guest, hope you enjoy.
