Finding rare harmful astrocytes in multiple sclerosis with a new cell-detection method
Identification of Regulatory Mechanisms Operating in Rare Pathogenic Astrocyte Subsets in Multiple Sclerosis with a Novel Genomic Technology
This project uses a new lab method to find and isolate tiny groups of brain support cells (astrocytes) that drive damage in multiple sclerosis so scientists can learn how to block their harmful signals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11177069 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are creating SEARCH-seq, a sensitive lab technique that detects specific RNA or DNA markers to pull out rare brain cells for deeper study. They will use this method to capture an astrocyte subset defined by a uniquely spliced form of the XBP1 gene that appears to make MS worse. Studies will combine work in a mouse MS model with experiments that turn genes on or off using CRISPR and analyses of human MS samples to see how these cells interact with other proteins like NR3C2 and NCOR2. The goal is to map the regulatory steps that cause these astrocytes to become harmful and point to ways to stop them.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with multiple sclerosis who can contribute biological samples (for example blood, CSF, or tissue donations) or agree to participate in sample-based research.
Not a fit: People without MS or those whose symptoms are unrelated to the specific astrocyte pathways studied are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could uncover new molecular targets to reduce damaging astrocyte activity and lead to treatments that slow or prevent MS progression.
How similar studies have performed: Single-cell genomic approaches have previously revealed disease-linked cell types, but the SEARCH-seq method and the specific focus on alternatively spliced XBP1 astrocytes represent a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abate, Adam R. — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Abate, Adam R.
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.