Blocking CSF1R to protect nerves in Guillain-Barré syndrome
Modulation of CSF1R Signaling to Treat Inflammatory Neuropathies
This project tests whether blocking a receptor called CSF1R can reduce nerve damage and help people with Guillain-Barré syndrome recover more quickly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11235894 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on Guillain-Barré syndrome, a sudden autoimmune condition that can cause weakness and paralysis. Researchers plan to block a protein called CSF1R that helps immune cells called macrophages attack nerves. They will use evidence from human pathology and animal models to see if stopping CSF1R signaling reduces nerve injury during the acute phase. The aim is to find treatments that can be given early to protect nerves and improve recovery beyond current options like IVIG.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People recently diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, especially those in the acute phase and with demyelinating forms, would be the most relevant candidates for related clinical testing.
Not a fit: Patients with non-immune causes of neuropathy or with long-established, irreversible nerve loss are unlikely to benefit from CSF1R-targeted acute therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that limit nerve injury and improve recovery and mobility for people with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Blocking CSF1R or related macrophage pathways has shown promise in animal models of nerve and immune injury, but it has not yet been proven as a treatment for Guillain-Barré syndrome in people.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sheikh, Kazim a — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Sheikh, Kazim a
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.