Understanding how specific brain cells contribute to multiple sclerosis

Identification of regulatory mechanisms operating in rare pathogenic astrocyte subsets in multiple sclerosis with a novel genomic technology

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10894105

This study is looking at special brain cells called astrocytes to see how they might affect multiple sclerosis, using a new method to understand their unique traits and how they contribute to the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894105 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on identifying and analyzing rare subsets of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, that play a significant role in multiple sclerosis. Using a novel technique called SEARCH-seq, researchers will isolate these cells and study their genetic and molecular characteristics. The study aims to understand how these astrocytes, particularly those with a specific genetic marker, contribute to disease progression in multiple sclerosis. By combining advanced genomic technologies with mouse models and human samples, the research seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms of disease pathology.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, particularly those exhibiting specific disease characteristics.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurological disorders or those without a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential therapeutic targets for treating multiple sclerosis.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced genomic technologies to study brain cell subsets, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.