Investigating how immune cells in the brain respond in multiple sclerosis
Official title: Examining Microglia Reactivation in Multiple Sclerosis
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10995164 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called microglia behave during multiple sclerosis to find new ways to help manage the disease and improve treatment for people living with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,623 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS139508-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995164 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) who are experiencing disease activity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) or those who do not have a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of microglia, the immune cells in the brain, in the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). It aims to identify the specific gene signatures of these cells when they become activated during disease cycles. By examining how these microglia change in response to repeated activation, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could help manage or slow down MS progression. This could lead to new strategies for treating patients suffering from this debilitating condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow the progression of multiple sclerosis and improve the quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting microglial activation in various neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for multiple sclerosis as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barclay, Kia — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Barclay, Kia
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Susceptibility-based MRI biomarkers for multiple sclerosis
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-
Mediterranean-style eating and aging in people with multiple sclerosis
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Imaging brain energy use in multiple sclerosis with a new imaging method
A new MRI-based method will non-invasively measure how the brain uses glucose and ketones in people with multiple sclerosis.
-
Astrocyte exosomes as aging biomarkers and drivers of MS progression
Researchers are testing a blood-based biomarker from astrocyte-like exosomes to understand why multiple sclerosis gets worse with age and to identify potential targets for treatment.
-
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.