Understanding why Multiple Sclerosis affects people differently
Novel mouse models to dissect the role of genetics, sex, and environment in heterogeneous outcomes in CNS autoimmune disease
This research aims to uncover how genetics, sex, and environmental factors contribute to the varied experiences of people living with Multiple Sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11144455 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease that causes different symptoms and progresses uniquely in each person, with some experiencing severe forms that are hard to treat. We know that MS is more common in women but often more severe in men, and that both genetics and environmental factors play a role. This project uses advanced animal models to explore how specific genes, biological sex, and environmental influences like certain viral infections interact to shape the disease. Our goal is to pinpoint the exact reasons behind these differences, which is very difficult to do in human studies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients directly but aims to benefit individuals with all forms of Multiple Sclerosis in the future.
Not a fit: Patients not diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of why MS varies so much, potentially paving the way for more personalized and effective treatments for different forms of the disease.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have identified genes linked to MS risk, how these genes function and why disease forms differ remains largely unknown, making this a novel approach to address those gaps.
Where this research is happening
Burlington, United States
- University of Vermont & St Agric College — Burlington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krementsov, Dimitry N — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Krementsov, Dimitry N
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.