Delivering immune-modulating proteins to the brain non-invasively

Non-invasive and Long-lived CNS Delivery of Treg-inducing Cytokine Depots

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11022493

This study is looking at a new way to deliver a special protein to the brain that could help reduce inflammation and protect against conditions like Alzheimer's and brain injuries, offering patients a non-invasive treatment option to improve their brain health and overall well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11022493 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a method to deliver a specific immune-modulating protein, IL-2, directly to the brain to help regulate inflammation. By using bispecific antibodies that can cross the blood-brain barrier, the study aims to create long-lasting cytokine depots in the central nervous system (CNS). This approach could potentially prevent or reduce damage from various neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and traumatic brain injury. Patients may benefit from a non-invasive treatment that could improve their neurological health and quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from neuroinflammatory conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, traumatic brain injury, or multiple sclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neuroinflammatory conditions or those who do not have access to the research location may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, non-invasive treatment option for patients with neuroinflammatory conditions, potentially improving their symptoms and overall health.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using bispecific antibodies for CNS delivery is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other contexts, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acute Diseaseacute disease/disorderacute disorderAlzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.