Joseph Herbert, M.D. directs the NYU Medical Center-Hospital for Joint Diseases Multiple Sclerosis program. Clinical studies in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) include immunomodulation, symptom management, rehabilitation out comes and quality of life.

Recent clinical trials included the use of DDAVP in the management of neurogenic bladder, effects of pulse corticosteroids on the skeleton, long-term study of osteoporosis in MS, and a long-term care program for chronic MS. Dr. Herbert is presently participating in a multicenter monosymptomatic early treatment trial, a statewide consortium creating MS database and blood/DNA bank, and a functional and electrophysiologic outcomes study of intrathecal baclofen for spasticity.

Dr. Herbert's basic research interests focus on hereditary, amyloid neuropathy, specifically the mechanisms of amyloid fibrillogenesis and potential modulators of this process. He is currently principal investigator on an FDA-funded Phase I study of use of chelating agent (Dimercaptosuccinic Acid) on progression of hereditary amyloidosis, and his interest extends to Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Herbert is also participating in a multicenter study of Tacrine in cognitive recovery from closed head injury, and in studies of capillary blood flow in skin under pressure, early detection of pressure ulceration, and optimal wheelchair systems for disabled.