Investigating the role of astrocytes in Multiple Sclerosis
Official title: Pathogenic Astrocyte Populations in EAE and MS
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11081817 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells, called astrocytes, play a role in the worsening of Multiple Sclerosis, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage the disease better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 6, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $440,048 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129778-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11081817 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, particularly those experiencing progressive symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurological conditions unrelated to autoimmune processes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific cells in the brain, called astrocytes, contribute to the progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers will explore the signaling pathways that activate these cells and their interactions with other immune cells. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could help limit the harmful activities of astrocytes in MS, particularly during its progressive phase.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of Multiple Sclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting astrocyte activity in other autoimmune conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in MS.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quintana, Francisco J. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Quintana, Francisco J.
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.