How regulatory T cells protect and repair the spinal cord during autoimmune attacks
Tissue-Specific Mechanisms of Regulatory T Cells in the CNS during Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Using high-resolution imaging in a mouse model of MS, the team will watch how regulatory T cells control spinal cord inflammation and help repair damage for people with autoimmune neuroinflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11262204 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work uses a mouse model that mimics multiple sclerosis to watch immune cells behaving in the spinal cord. Researchers will use two-photon microscopy and calcium-signaling tools to visualize regulatory T (Treg) cells in real time and track their movement, survival, and interactions. The team will study the local signals and cellular niches that let Treg cells limit inflammation and promote tissue repair. Results may point to biological targets for therapies that strengthen these protective cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with multiple sclerosis or other autoimmune neuroinflammatory conditions who are interested in future therapies that enhance immune regulation and repair.
Not a fit: Patients with non-neurological conditions or those seeking immediate changes to their clinical care are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this preclinical, mouse-based research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to treatments that boost regulatory T cells to reduce relapses and promote repair in MS and related autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and laboratory studies have shown regulatory T cells can limit inflammation and aid tissue repair, but real-time imaging of these cells in the spinal cord is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Othy, Shivashankar — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Othy, Shivashankar
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.