How brain immune cells (microglia) may help repair myelin in the brain's cortex
The role of microglia in cortical remyelination
This project looks at whether brain immune cells called microglia help damaged nerve insulation (myelin) grow back in the cortex for people with multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11401729 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective: the team will use lab models that mimic the cortical damage seen in multiple sclerosis and watch brain cells over time with advanced two-photon imaging to track myelin loss and repair. They will temporarily reduce microglia activity during the recovery phase to see whether microglia help or hinder oligodendrocyte replacement. The investigators will also analyze RNA from cells in lesions to identify molecular signals linked to better or worse remyelination. These combined live-imaging and molecular approaches are intended to point to factors that limit cortical myelin repair and potential targets for future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with multiple sclerosis who are interested in remyelination research or who may want to participate in future clinical studies related to cortical repair.
Not a fit: People without demyelinating diseases or whose symptoms are driven by non-myelinating causes would not be expected to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to encourage myelin repair in the cortex and reduce cognitive and motor disability in people with MS.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies show microglia clear myelin debris and influence repair, but translating those findings into effective remyelination treatments for people with MS remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Orthmann-Murphy, Jennifer Lauren — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Orthmann-Murphy, Jennifer Lauren
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.