Blocking OCA-B to reduce immune attacks in multiple sclerosis
Targeting OCA-B in multiple sclerosis
['FUNDING_R01'] · UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-11257655
Researchers are trying a new approach that targets the protein OCA‑B to stop memory T cells from reactivating and causing relapses in people with multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11257655 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at a protein called OCA‑B that helps T cells 'remember' past encounters and can drive repeated attacks on the nervous system in MS. Scientists will study how removing or blocking OCA‑B changes inflammatory signals in T cells using animal models, human immune cells, and genetic data from people. They will map the molecular steps by which OCA‑B controls reactivation of T cells after rest, and test whether targeting it can reduce harmful immune memory while leaving normal immune responses intact. The goal is to identify a safe, targeted way to lower MS relapses driven by reencountered antigens.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis who are interested in targeted immune therapies and in contributing blood or tissue samples for research would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People with non‑immune causes of neurologic symptoms or primarily progressive MS may be less likely to benefit from this T cell–focused approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to treatments that reduce MS relapses by preventing harmful T cell memory while keeping useful immune defenses working.
How similar studies have performed: Targeting T cell memory is a relatively new strategy: preclinical work supports the idea but OCA‑B itself is a novel target that has not yet been tested as a therapy in people.
Where this research is happening
SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES
- UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH — SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TANTIN, DEAN — UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- Study coordinator: TANTIN, DEAN
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.
Conditions: Autoimmune Diabetes