How different natural killer (NK) cells influence relapsing-remitting MS
Role of NK cell subsets in an animal model of relapsing-remittingmultiple sclerosis
This work looks at whether different types of natural killer (NK) immune cells help or harm people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, using a lab model to guide future treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11215786 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use a relapsing-remitting animal model of MS to study how immature and mature NK cell subsets affect disease activity and brain/spinal cord inflammation. They will compare what happens when specific NK cell types are removed, reduced, or altered and measure changes in symptoms and tissue damage. The team will link these animal findings with known NK cell patterns seen in people with MS to identify promising targets. Results will help decide which NK-directed approaches deserve testing in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with relapsing-remitting MS who are interested in new immune-based treatments or willing to join future clinical trials would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People with primary progressive MS or whose disease is not driven by immune inflammation may be less likely to benefit from NK-targeted approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new immune-cell targets or strategies that lead to better MS treatments or reduce relapses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and early clinical observations have produced mixed results—some findings suggest NK cells can worsen disease while others show protective roles—so the approach is promising but not yet proven.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ifergan, Igal — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Ifergan, Igal
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.