Understanding how genetic factors and gut bacteria interact to affect multiple sclerosis.
Official title: Role of HLA Class-II Polymorphism in the Regulation of Host-Microbiota Symbiosis
Funded at Iowa City VA Medical Center · NIH-10951526 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes and the bacteria in our gut work together to affect the immune system in people with multiple sclerosis, with the hope of finding new ways to diagnose or treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa City VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2023 |
| Project end | September 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006112-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951526 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, particularly those interested in understanding the role of genetics and gut health in their condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis or those with other unrelated autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between HLA class-II genetic variations and gut microbiota in regulating the immune response in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). By studying both human samples and animal models, the research aims to uncover how these interactions can influence disease outcomes. The goal is to identify mechanisms that could lead to new diagnostic or therapeutic strategies for MS, potentially leveraging the gut microbiome's role in disease progression or protection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new ways to diagnose or treat multiple sclerosis by targeting the gut microbiome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Iowa City VA Medical Center
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mangalam, Ashutosh Kumar — Iowa City VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mangalam, Ashutosh Kumar
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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.