How tobacco smoking affects immune function and prognosis in multiple sclerosis
Official title: Effects of tobacco smoking on prognosis and immune function in multiple sclerosis
Funded at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation · NIH-11050242 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how smoking affects the immune system and the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS) in people with the condition, to help find better ways to manage MS for those who smoke.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $552,147 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DA060226-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11050242 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis who are also tobacco smokers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with multiple sclerosis who do not smoke or have other autoimmune conditions unrelated to tobacco exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of tobacco smoking on immune function and disease progression in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). It aims to understand how smoking influences the activation of specific immune cells, particularly TH17 and B cells, which are linked to poor outcomes in MS. By analyzing blood samples from smokers and non-smokers with relapsing-remitting MS, the study will explore the mechanisms by which cigarette smoke exacerbates inflammation and disease severity. The findings could lead to improved strategies for managing MS in smokers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights that lead to better treatment options and management strategies for MS patients who smoke.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a correlation between smoking and adverse outcomes in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this study builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Axtell, Robert C — Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
- Study coordinator: Axtell, Robert C
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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.