Investigating changes in brain connections in multiple sclerosis.
How Do Synaptic Connections Change in Demyelinating Disease?
This study is looking at how multiple sclerosis affects the connections between brain cells, hoping to find out how certain proteins linked to the immune system might cause these connections to break down, which could help us understand how to spot and treat MS earlier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11011461 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how synaptic connections in the brain are affected by multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease that causes inflammation and damage to the protective covering of nerve fibers. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind synapse loss, particularly how certain proteins involved in the immune response may lead to the elimination of synapses in MS. By using animal models, the research will explore the timing and conditions under which synapse dysfunction occurs, potentially before other signs of neurodegeneration appear. This could provide insights into early interventions for patients with MS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, particularly those experiencing early symptoms of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurological conditions unrelated to demyelination may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that prevent synapse loss and improve outcomes for patients with multiple sclerosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synapse loss in other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for MS as well.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schafer, Dorothy Patricia — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Schafer, Dorothy Patricia
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.