Investigating how DNA changes affect multiple sclerosis development
Official title: DNA methylation in the development of multiple sclerosis
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11078752 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA might affect the risk and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS) by analyzing blood samples from MS patients, with the goal of finding better ways to treat the disease, especially with certain therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $658,256 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS128277-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078752 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who have not yet received treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced multiple sclerosis or those who have already undergone extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of DNA methylation in the risk and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). It involves analyzing blood samples from patients diagnosed with MS to identify specific genetic and epigenetic changes that may influence treatment responses, particularly to anti-CD20 antibody therapies. The study employs advanced techniques to assess gene expression and chromatin accessibility at the single-cell level, aiming to uncover the underlying mechanisms of MS. By integrating various data types, the research seeks to provide insights into the disease's pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for multiple sclerosis patients by identifying specific biomarkers that predict treatment response.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic and epigenetic factors in multiple sclerosis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oksenberg, Jorge R. — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Oksenberg, Jorge R.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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-
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-
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Astrocyte exosomes as aging biomarkers and drivers of MS progression
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-
Promoting brain repair in MS with a natural compound that nudges neural stem cells
A researcher is testing a natural-product–based compound that may help people with multiple sclerosis repair nerve damage by guiding brain stem cells to become neurons and myelin-producing cells.
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Targeted B cell tolerance therapy for multiple sclerosis using Ace-DEX microparticles
A new therapy using tiny biopolymer particles given through the vein aims to retrain B cells to tolerate the immune system in people with multiple sclerosis.
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.