Investigating the role of immune cells in a rare genetic brain disease.
Official title: Role of CD8 T cell-mediated Pathology in Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy
Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-11012817 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of immune cell called CD8 T cells affects the progression of Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy (GLD), a serious genetic disorder that impacts the brain's ability to protect nerves, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $454,142 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS131327-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012817 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants and young children diagnosed with Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy or those at risk due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurological disorders unrelated to demyelination or immune response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy (GLD), a severe genetic disorder affecting the brain's ability to form myelin, which is crucial for proper nerve function. The study aims to understand how CD8 T cells, a type of immune cell, contribute to the disease's progression and pathology. By analyzing changes in T cell populations in a mouse model of GLD, researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms behind the inflammation and demyelination associated with this condition. This could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic strategies for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for children suffering from Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of CD8 T cells in GLD has not been extensively studied, similar research in other demyelinating diseases has shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
Farmington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crocker, Stephen J — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Crocker, Stephen 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.