Understanding and treating autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases affecting the brain.
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at Portland VA Medical Center · NIH-11176583 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to help veterans with autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases, like multiple sclerosis, by understanding what causes these conditions and testing new treatments to reduce inflammation and improve their health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Portland VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2018 |
| Project end | March 31, 2032 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 2IK6BX004209-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11176583 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include veterans and individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, or other related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to autoimmune or neurodegenerative processes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on gaining a deeper biological understanding of autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases that impact the central nervous system, particularly in veterans. The team aims to identify and test new therapies that target chronic inflammation and other underlying mechanisms of these conditions. One of the key areas of interest is multiple sclerosis, where the research explores genetic factors that may increase the risk of disease progression. By developing novel treatments, the goal is to improve outcomes for patients suffering from these debilitating conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve the quality of life for patients with autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar biological mechanisms in autoimmune diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Portland VA Medical Center
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vandenbark, Arthur a. — Portland VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Vandenbark, Arthur a.
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.