Understanding how a specific gene affects brain cells in neurological diseases
Official title: CLEC16A-driven regulation of astrocytes
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11121536 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called CLEC16A helps control important brain cells that can cause problems in diseases like multiple sclerosis, and it hopes to find new ways to improve treatment for patients by understanding how these cells work.
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 | June 6, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $549,256 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS142904-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11121536 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis or related central nervous system disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to astrocyte function may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the CLEC16A gene in regulating astrocytes, which are crucial cells in the central nervous system involved in diseases like multiple sclerosis. By using advanced techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9, the study aims to uncover how CLEC16A suppresses harmful inflammatory responses in astrocytes. The research will explore the mechanisms by which astrocytes can become pathogenic and how these processes can be controlled to improve outcomes in neurological conditions. Patients may benefit from insights gained about astrocyte function and potential new therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or prevent neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting astrocyte functions in neurological diseases, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
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.
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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.