At first, it was suggested that I take charge of the CIA's saxitoxin, with the idea that I would be responsible for its appropriate distribution to scientists who asked for it. However, I realized that there would be very many applicants for the toxin, which was in somewhat limited supply. So I would be forced to ration it, or even deny some applications, and would surely make enemies. I therefore declined the offer but strongly suggested it be held by the NIH, a recommendation that was indeed accepted. It did, however, account for the main defect in multiple sclerosis, which is the inability of nerves that have demyelinated to conduct nerve impulses.
Nerve conduction fails and paralysis ensues.
Unfortunately, the ultimate cause of the demyelination leading to MS remains unknown. All rights reserved.