Developing a new animal model for a neurological autoimmune disorder
Official title: An animal model of anti-AQP4 autoimmunity
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11095984 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating special mice that mimic a serious condition called neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, so researchers can test new treatments that might help calm the immune system and protect against damage caused by the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,063 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171479-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11095984 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder or those with related autoimmune neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of autoimmune disorders that do not involve aquaporin-4 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating an animal model that mimics the autoimmune response seen in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4 NMOSD), a serious neurological condition. By using genetically modified mice, the researchers aim to replicate the disease's pathology and immune response, which will allow for better testing of potential therapies that target the underlying cause of the disease. The study will explore methods to restore the aquaporin-4 protein in these mice to understand how this might affect the autoimmune response. This model will be crucial for preclinical testing of new treatments aimed at tolerizing the immune system to prevent damage caused by AQP4 autoimmunity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from AQP4 NMOSD, potentially reducing disability and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in understanding AQP4 NMOSD, the development of a specific animal model for this condition is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior research.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oh, Unsong — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Oh, Unsong
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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.