Metabolic clues that predict how multiple sclerosis may progress
Metabolic predictors of disease outcomes in multiple sclerosis
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11290313
This research looks at patterns in blood metabolism to help predict future disability in people living with multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11290313 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would provide blood samples so researchers can measure many small molecules (metabolomics) and watch how those patterns change over time. The team will link these metabolic signatures to clinical exams and disability measures using both new follow-up and previously collected data. This work builds on earlier results showing disruptions in amino acid pathways in people with MS. The goal is to find biomarkers that signal higher risk of worsening so care can be more personalized.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who can provide blood samples and attend follow-up clinic visits, especially those early in disease or with unclear prognosis.
Not a fit: People without MS, those unable to give blood or attend study visits, or individuals already in advanced irreversible disability may not receive direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help doctors identify patients at higher risk of progression and point to new targets to slow disability.
How similar studies have performed: Previous large metabolomics studies including nearly 1,000 profiles found metabolic changes linked to MS and disability, so this builds on promising prior findings.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FITZGERALD, KATHRYN C. — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: FITZGERALD, KATHRYN C.
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.
Conditions: CNS Diseases, CNS disorder, Central Nervous System Diseases, Central Nervous System Disorders